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$24.84
WONDERFUL SMALL TEKOTEKO HAND CARVED WOODEN STATUE FROM 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 6'' OR 15 CM APPROX.
GOOD VINTAGE WITH LIGHT WEAR. SOLIDLY MADE.
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.
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Vintis
1 business day
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Just contact me within: 7 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 14 days of delivery
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
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.
Dear US buyers, starting Aug 29 2025 there will be new tax charges on shipments coming into US from UK. It' the buyer's responsibility to pay the tax; Although, whenever possible, I will pay the tax myself on your behalf.
Thank you for your support.
EUROPEAN SAFETY NOTICE
In accordance with the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 — Article 2(2)(i) and the second sentence of Article 2(3) — please note:
The items offered in this store are second-hand vintage, collectible, or antique goods, typically over 30 years old. Their original manufacturers are no longer in operation. As such, manufacturer details, serial or lot numbers, and original safety instructions are unavailable.
These items were not produced to meet modern safety standards. Therefore, they should be considered non-functional decorative pieces only. If intended for practical use, professional repair, reconditioning, or refurbishment is strongly advised prior to any use.