Framed Maori Fish Hook - Te Matau a Maui

This Framed Maori Fish Hook is a beautiful piece of New Zealand art, framed behind glass.

The design is a contemporary representation of Te Matau a Maui, the fish hook of Maui. In Maori folklore, Maui used his enchanted fish hook to fish up New Zealand. The North Island is the fish, the South Island is his fishing canoe (waka), and Stewart Island is Maui's anchor.

This beautiful carving was designed by Mike Carlton, who is of Ngati Whakaue descent, and has affiliations to the Hinemoa Point Marae in Rotorua, New Zealand. The carving was created in New Zealand from plantation grown hardwood embellished with New Zealand Paua (abalone) Shell. The frame is native New Zealand Rimu.

Size is approximately 21.8 x 17 x 3cm (8 5/8 x 6 3/4 x 1 1/8").

The Manaia (guardian spirit) carved at the top of the hook guides the Mauri (life force) of the fish to the place of peace and tranquility. The Koru (fern frond) at the base of the Manaia's beak also symbolises peace, tranquility, new life and new growth.

The artist states that Te Matau a Maui represents wit, friendliness, a strong will and a determination to succeed until the end of life.

All the details about the carving are printed on the back of the frame, making this a great gift to anyone, be it friend, family, school, or business gift.

Proudly designed and made in New Zealand.