New Zealand jade - Hei Matau with Manaia

This carving in New Zealand Jade with its slender long body represents mana and strength, wisdom and protection.  The mania is a potent guardian and reflects back to old pacific rim cultures where birdshead figures represented deity and powerful protectors, in some cultures they are dragons. 

Carved in Inunga jade from Awaroa Point Big Bay Fiordland

Measurement length 80mm x width 30mm

code: GW7