Unique Maori Weapon - The Mere (Patu) with Hei Tiki Design

Click Image for Larger Image

This is an incredibly unique piece, it will never be repeated.

The Mere is 12 inches (310mm) long and has a Hei Tiki carved into the handle. The piece is made from an incredible piece of shakey mottled Arahua greenstone/Pounamu and it really looks stunning.

This Mere made from Arahua greenstone/Pounamu is a one off unique piece and will not be available again.

This Mere is 12 inches (310mm) x 3.5 inches (89mm) wide at blade end and approx. 1.75 inches(45mm) wide at handle end, thickness is approx. 1 inch (25mm) at handle end down to approx. 0.06 inches (1.5mm) at blade end.

This brilliant mere is finished off with a plaited and bound waxed polyester tread handle loop.

Gallery

Click on any image for larger images.



This wonderful piece was hand carved by Glen Surgenor in Hokitika on the west coast of the south island of New Zealand. Glen has been carving greenstone for over 25 years. Glen uses traditional methods when carving, this piece was sand stone rubbed for that authentic artifact feel and appearance, just as the old Maori masters would have crafted them.

The Mere (Patu)

The Mere, which was also known as the Patu or Waihaka, was usually made from hard wood, bone or greenstone. It is a short flat club and was used very effectively in hand to hand combat. The Maori warriors who used the Mere would have certain strike zones, these would include the temple, the jaw and the rib area.

Of all the Mere, the greenstone one was the most highly prized. The reason for this was the incredible amount of time and work it took to fashion one.

Maori warriors who carried the greenstone Mere where thought to have great strength and great honor. In todays times the Mere (Patu) is said to represent the ability to face and overcome life challenges.

Customers who bought this product also purchased:

Frangipani South Pacific Fairy Key Ring

Fully Polished Paua Shell Unboxed

Kiwi Bird w/ Egg Paua and Silver Key Ring

Maori Koru Rimu & Paua Pendant

New Zealand Greenstone Shepherds / Dog Whistle Pendant

Show more...