Small Tekoteko Sculpture Totem with Paua shell eyes, New Zealand native wood carving.

$33.12 $36.80

Shipping to United States: $28.91

WONDERFUL SMALL TEKOTEKO HAND CARVED WOODEN STATUE FROM AROTEAROA NEW ZEALAND.

PAUA SHELL EYES.

These typical Maori carvings are depicted in a defiant stance. The purpose of this stance is to ward of evil and intruders. The eyes of the Tekoteko are made of paua shell which adds to the overall appearance and makes them more lively.

TEKOTEKO MEASUREMENTS:

H 9'' OR 23CM APPROX.

GOOD VINTAGE CONDITION,SEE PICTURES.

The most common tekoteko legend is about the chief Ruapupuke (Ruatepupuke) who’s son was taken by Tangaroa, the god of the sea. The reason because the son called Manuruhi did not ask permission to fish nor did he offer the first fish he caught to Tangaroa.

Tangaroa turns him into a wood carving to crown the rooftop of his house deep on the bottom of the ocean. When chief Ruapuke goes to the rescue of his son he discovers Tangaroa’s empty house which is heavily ornated with wood carvings. Some of the human shaped posts (poupou) were talking.

Thus he found out the inhabitants (Tangaroa and the fish) would return at sunset to sleep. The advice of a kuia (female elder) he knew had to block the daylight from entering the house so he would be able to kill them. After doing so Ruapupuke set the house on fire and took his son and some other carvings with him.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING:
Please send me a message with your location for details about shipping costs.
The shipping costs set up are just a reference.I will refund any shipping overcharge.
I'm happy to combine orders for shipping and/or discounts. It never hurts to ask!

THANKS FOR VISITING MY SHOP!
Follow me!

https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/VINTIS?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

Vintis

Shipping from United Kingdom

Processing time

1 business day

Customs and import taxes

Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.

Payment Options

Secure options
  • Accepts Etsy gift cards

Returns & Exchanges

I gladly accept returns and exchanges

Just contact me within: 7 days of delivery

Ship items back to me within: 14 days of delivery

I don't accept cancellations

But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.

The following items can't be returned or exchanged

Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:

  • Custom or personalized orders
  • Perishable products (like food or flowers)
  • Digital downloads
  • Intimate items (for health/hygiene reasons)

Conditions of return

Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.