This 125mm x 37mm hand-carved bovine bone Manaia pendant features a refined, contemporary profile with subtle Paua shell inlays. A traditional Kaitiaki (guardian), it represents the spiritual messenger between the physical world and the ancestors, providing balance and protection for the wearer.
This piece showcases a minimalist interpretation of the Manaia, focusing on the fluid transition between its bird-like head (Sky) and human form (Earth). In Maori tradition, the Manaia is the Kaitiaki Wairua—a sentinel that sits upon the shoulder to ward off malevolent spirits. The integration of iridescent Paua shell accents serves as the "eyes of the ancestors," providing spiritual vision and guidance. Hand-polished to a high luster, the ethically sourced bone will evolve into a deep honey-gold patina as it absorbs the wearer’s Mauri (life force), maturing into a living record of their personal Whakapapa (lineage).
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