Toki Whao

This 7 cm pendant is a personal favourite, as it truly captivates my senses. Its harmonious blend of colors, the depth created by the carving techniques, and the striking contrast between the smooth curves and sharp edges all contribute to its unique beauty. This whao, with its traditional design, is based on the tools that were once used in Aotearoa before the arrival of colonizers. The artisanal craftsmanship of this piece is a testament to the skill and artistry of traditional Māori carvers and their ability to create timeless works of art.

A whao is a traditional chisel used for carving and shaping wood, bone, and other materials. It is a smaller version of the toki, a larger, more versatile adze used for a range of tasks, including felling trees and shaping wooden logs for building. Whao are typically used for finer, more detailed work, such as carving intricate designs and patterns into wooden or bone objects. In Māori culture, the toki and whao both hold significant symbolic value. The toki represents strength, courage, and determination, and was often passed down from generation to generation as a taonga, or treasure. It was also used in ceremonial practices, such as the carving of waka (canoes) and wharenui (meeting houses). The whao, being a smaller version of the toki, shares in this symbolism, representing the importance of detail and precision in Māori carving and craftsmanship.