The Maori Pekapeka Pendant: Meaning and Symbolism
Introduction The Pekapeka pendant, a distinctive artifact within New Zealand Maori culture, is frequently recognized by its stylized form suggestive of a bat or its explicit association with these unique native mammals. As a taonga, or treasured possession, understanding the historical context and traditional interpretations of the Pekapeka pendant is crucial for appreciating its cultural significance. This post aims to delve into the oldest and most reliable meanings and symbolism attributed to the Pekapeka pendant by examining books published before 1950. By analyzing these sources, this investigation seeks to provide a comprehensive account of the pendant's cultural role as understood by early researchers and potentially reflecting traditional Maori perspectives documented during that period. The methodology employed involves a targeted search...
