Pounamu Fish Hook Stylised

New Zealand Pounamu by Barry Dash

6 x 3cm

The Hei Matau is carved in the shape of a stylised fishhook. It represents strength, prosperity, fertility, good luck and safe travel over water. It's meaning originated from the Maori legend of Maui who once caught a great fish using only a woven line and hook made from the jawbone of his grandmother.

Barry was born and raised on the West Coast. The son of a Jade carver working in Hokitika 45 years ago. Barry has collected jade since his early 20’s then went on to learn to carve and has been a full time self-employed carver for the last 25 years.