A magnificent Mere crafted from an outstanding piece of Totoweka Pounamu. The incredible range of colour in this epic carving is remarkable and the skill of a master carver really shines through, it truly makes this piece extraordinary and a definite collector’s item. Wonderfully displayed on a handmade Rimu wood base. This will be a treasured taonga for many generations.
Mere
is a type of short, broad-bladed weapon in the shape of an enlarged tear drop. It was used to strike/jab an opponent in the body or the head, usually made from greenstone. The Mere signifies high status and gives the owner courage and strength.
Totoweka- This stone is usually like the mid green Kawakawa variety but differs in that the spotting or streaks are red like blood. It is rare to find Totoweka in the Westland jade fields, but when a piece is discovered, it is highly cherished and sometimes becomes the show piece of the fossicker’s collection. Large deposits of Totoweka occur in the South Westland area. The name comes from toto (blood), weka (Native bush hen) or weka blood. The red iron oxide inclusions were likened to the colour of blood of the Weka.
A quality piece to be treasured and preserved for your children and children's children.
You will receive this exact Mere and stand as well as a wooden box for storage and shipping.
Hand Carved Des Hetherington
Mere Size 523mm long x 117mm wide x 26mm thick
This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos, there may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.
