Kōuma Kahotea

Description

This 70mm Pounamu Kōuma is a breastplate taonga symbolising protection, inner strength, and resilience. Carved from Kahotea Pounamu, it features deep green tones emerging from a white-flecked base, with warm orange highlights adding to its natural beauty. The kōuma is secured with a black 4-braid cord on a ringbolt lashing, designed for both durability and comfort.

The kōuma represents the sternum or breastbone, a structure that protects the heart and lungs, symbolising endurance and the ability to withstand challenges. It is a taonga that connects the wearer to their whakapapa, carrying the wisdom and mana of those who came before.

Kahotea Pounamu is known for its striking mix of light and dark, representing balance, duality, and the ever-changing nature of life. This kōuma is a reminder that strength comes not just from power, but from understanding and navigating life’s contrasts.

Size: 70mm across

Material: Pounamu/Kahotea

Carver: Campbell Potter