A very large hand crafted Manaia bone carving necklace.
Featuring detailed traditional engravings and Paua shell inlays and fine flowing forms.
Complete with a plaited waxed braid cord and carved bone toggle, it also includes a traditional woven presentation case and a detailed description of the meaning of the carving.

Size: 120mm Long (4.75 Inches)
 

The Manaia is one of the more ancient mythical beings with a bird's head and a human form. It is said to be the messenger between the earthly world of mortals and the domain of the spirits. The Manaia is regarded as a kind deity protecting the people and helping them communicate with ancestors on the other side.
It is also a holder of great spiritual energy and is a guardian against evil.
The Manaia can be seen blended into many Maori designs such as the whale to depict its different powers and its interaction with the spirit or mortal worlds.
The Koru carvings represent family, love new life and new beginnings