Old Large Maori Hei Peka Peka with Manaia Pendant

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

Old Large Maori Hei Peka Peka with Manaia Pendant:
$357.00

This came from a world traveler\'s estate sale in Ponte Vedra, FL last weekend. The past owner was a WWII vet who traveled to the south Pacific and New Zealand in the 1940s. Based on my reference material from the net, this is a carved nephrite or greenstone Maori pendant from the early 20th century. The pendant is called a peka peka (bat form) with manaia (face form). The paua shell ring eyes are still attached and the carving is translucent at the edges. There is no cord or necklace; it is in excellent condition. It is 6.25cm or 2.5 inches wide by 5cm or just under 2 inches tall. This carving was made with primitive tools as can be seen on the surface. These were originally worn by Maori warriors and noblemen. I am not a pro on Maori objects, so I welcome comments/questions. I will post all questions and answers for the community. I have added 2 photos to show the translucence, the photo with the black background is in the sun; the photo with the beige background is with inside light.