New Zealand (Māori)

Anthropomorphic Bone Hei Tiki Pendant and Tā Moko Ornamentation by Māori

2937

Date: Estimated around the late 18th to 19th century (circa 1780–1880 CE), during the classical and early contact periods of Māori history. Period: Traditional Māori / Classic to Contact Period of New Zealand Art.

Personal Adornment and Regalia: Worn around the neck as an elite personal pendant by high-ranking Māori chiefs (rangatira) and tribal leaders. Spiritual and Protective Role: Acted as a powerful spiritual receptacle (taonga), embodying ancestral presence, fertility, and protection against malevolent forces. It served as a familial heirloom passed down through generations, absorbing the mana (spiritual power) of its wearers.