Vintage New Zealand Hand Carved Wooden Tiki Figure with Pāua Shell Eyes For Sale
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Vintage New Zealand Hand Carved Wooden Tiki Figure with Pāua Shell Eyes:
$17.98
Vintage New Zealand Māori Hand-Carved Wooden Tiki — Mother of Pearl Eyes — Traditional NZ Souvenir
DESCRIPTION:
A beautifully detailed vintage New Zealand Māori hand-carved wooden tiki figure — a classic piece of traditional New Zealand carving featuring exquisite detail throughout and characteristic mother of pearl shell inlaid eyes.
ABOUT THE TIKI
The tiki is one of the most significant and recognisable symbols in Māori culture and New Zealand heritage. In Māori tradition, the tiki represents the first man created by the god Tāne, and tiki figures are considered powerful taonga (treasures) — symbols of good luck, fertility, strength and protection.
The characteristic features of this tiki are all present and beautifully executed:
- Protruding tongue — in Māori culture the protruding tongue represents defiance, strength and the haka challenge — one of the most powerful gestures in Māori tradition
- Mother of pearl shell inlaid eyes — the iridescent pāua or mother of pearl shell eyes are a hallmark of authentic Māori carving, believed to give the figure life and spiritual presence
- Deeply carved body patterns — the intricate surface carving on the body, arms and base reflects traditional Māori decorative art incorporating koru and kowhaiwhai inspired patterns
- Hunched warrior stance — the figure’s posture with hands raised reflects the traditional tiki form representing ancestral power
- Decorative carved base — with traditional beaded/scalloped border detail
THE TIMBER
The warm reddish-brown timber with beautiful grain is consistent with traditional New Zealand native timbers used in Māori carving — possibly totara, rimu or kauri — all prized for their beauty, durability and cultural significance in New Zealand woodworking. The timber has developed a beautiful aged patina consistent with genuine hand-carved vintage pieces.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
This piece displays the hallmarks of genuine hand carving — slight natural variations in the depth and width of carved lines, the organic quality of the facial features, and the beautiful three-dimensional form of the figure all speak to skilled hand workmanship rather than mass production. The mother of pearl shell eyes are individually inlaid — a time-consuming process that distinguishes quality pieces from cheap tourist reproductions.
DETAILS
- Height: 12.7cm
- Width: 4cm
- Material: Native New Zealand hardwood — species unconfirmed — possibly totara, rimu or kauri
- Eyes: Mother of pearl shell inlay
- Base: Flat rectangular carved base — stands independently
- Carving: Hand carved — vintage
- Origin: New Zealand
- Condition: Good vintage condition — please see all photos
CULTURAL NOTE
This tiki is offered respectfully as a piece of New Zealand cultural heritage and decorative art. Tiki figures are widely recognised as symbols of New Zealand’s unique Māori cultural heritage and are cherished souvenirs and collectibles worldwide.
PERFECT FOR
- New Zealand memorabilia collectors
- Māori art and culture enthusiasts
- Pacific Island art collectors
- World tribal art collectors
- New Zealand expatriates and Kiwi diaspora
- Anyone who appreciates fine hand carving
- Home decor — a striking display piece
Please view all photos carefully as part of the description including the base.
Happy to combine postage with other listings in my store.
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