Inanga Toki Pounamu

Description

A stunning example of Inanga Pounamu sourced up the Aniseed Valley, Tasman, New Zealand. This large piece is carved into a Toki which is notched. The notches represent whakapapa a fundamental concept in Māori culture which signifies genealogy or descent, not only a tracing of family but a connection to all thing in the world, both tangible and spiritual, past and present.
Inanga Pounamu is a New Zealand nephrite jade with a milky appearance with tones of light-olive and pearly white. Inanga jade is named after the freshwater native fish which is known to migrate from the moana (sea) to the awa (river). It is believed to carry the mauri (life force) of both the land and the people who have touched it.
Toki directly translates to adze. Toki are essential tools for Māori and are used for wood working, tattoo and ceremony, represent strength, knowledge and completion.