Manaia are the kaitiaki (guardian) of the earth, sky, and sea. Worn as a pendant they protect the wearer from harm and are a symbol of status, mana (prestige), and whairawa (wealth).
Manaia, a powerful personal guardian in Māori tradition, embodies mana – the concept of power, authority, and prestige. Believed to possess ethereal presence and energy,...
Matau Manaia are contemporary forms that personify Tangaroa, the guardian over all living creatures in ngā puna wai (water sources). This piece was carved and...