Carved Wooden Taiaha on Base with Greenstone / Pounamu Tongue

This Carving would make a lovely Presentation Piece, Trophy, Souvenir of New Zealand or as alternative to the Traditional 21st Birthday Key.

It is Made in New Zealand from sustainably harvested Tulipwood and the Taiaha is approx 75.8cm Long (including Greenstone Tongue)

The Greenstone Tongue measures approx 11cm Long and has a Polished Finish.

The Base measures 78cm Wide by 9cm Deep by 3.5cm High (not including the Holders)

It is carved on both sides with inlaid Paua Shell.

A Taiaha is a hand weapon usually made from hard wood, or sometimes whale bone, they have one end carved in the shape of an upoko (head) with a face on each side. The eyes of the two faces see all around, reflecting the alertness of the Taiaha exponent. An arero (tongue) protruding from the upoko forms one end of the weapon. The upoko is adorned with a tauri (collar) of feathers and/or dog hair, the tassels of which form the awe. Below this, the tinana (body) provides the grip. The other end of the Taiaha has a flat smooth blade, or rau, usually about five to seven centimetres wide, which is the main striking blade.