gucci mane tattoo wesi: 2009

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Maori Carving Meanings

Traditional Maori wood and bone carving is based on particular designs with a special significance. Most commonly traditions, ancestral history and religious stories are depicted in the carvings.

Because the Maori had no written language before the Europeans set foot on the coasts of New Zealand the carvings were a vessel to pass on cultural heritage. The carved items e.g. masks, totems, weapons, jewelry and ornaments of buildings were highly respected by the tribe. Many of these objects were considered sacred and were thought to have souls. These treasures are called Taonga by the Maori.

Check out stunning hand carved Maori bone, wood and jade pendants here.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Tiki Pendant Necklaces

Many legends belonging to the cultural heritage of the Maori explain the meaning of symbols like the matau and koru. This however does not count for the tiki symbol. The tiki is one of the most mysterious symbols in Maori (and Polynesian) culture. No one is absolutely sure about its exact meaning.

Some say the tiki resmbles the human fetus. Most experts agree the tiki resembles fertility. The legend of tiki also refers to this. Tiki, being the first man on the earth, originating from the stars created his wife from his own reflection. Variations of the legend are about Tiki being the Polynesian god , the creator of life.

Click this link to read more about the symbolics, the legend and tiki pendants.