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.