Breastplate inspired by Pohutukawa

Pōhutukawa is one of the stars of the Matariki cluster and is the star that connects Matariki to the dead. It carries those who've passed away since the last heliacal rising of Matariki in Pipiri (the first lunar month of the Māori year). Māori belief determines that the spirits of the dead leave the body and undertake a journey along Te Ara Wairua - The Pathway of Spirits. Near the ocean, the journey ends where an ancient Pōhutukawa tree stands - the dead descend the tree root into the underworld. Pōhutukawa is the eldest in the cluster and determined a sacred star as it connects us to the dead. It is through Pōhutukawa that we remember those who have died in the past year.

This piece is part of our Matariki Collection and will be on exhibit in our Rotorua studio until 11th July 2021. You can reserve (pre-purchase) this limited-edition carving online, and it will be shipped to you as soon as the exhibition is finished. Included, is the original framed artwork, signed by Tamaora Walker. The photo frame is (28cm h x 23cm w).

This piece was designed by Tamaora Walker and carved by Akapita Scally, and crafted from New Zealand pounamu.