This beautifully carved trophy or ornament represents the Maori Marakihau, a taniwha of the sea.  A taniwha is a Maori mythological creature or monster, residing in water.  A taniwha can be both harmful and protective.  The marakihau may take on the role of the kaitiaki (guardian) of a coastal region, whereas some traditions say that marakihau would kidnap women to take on as wives.

If treated with respect, taniwha usually were protective towards their own people. They might warn of impending danger, or save someone from drowning.  Offerings were made to taniwha to ensure safety in their area.

Marakihau are generally carved as a human, with a bulbous head, three fingers, and a fish tail. 

This marakihau is a guardian figure, so would be perfect to give to someone who has held that sort of role, whether in a family, school, business, etc.  Alternatively you could purchase it to have a taniwha in your home.

The trophy stands approximately 36cm (14 1/4" ) tall.  The large stand allows for engraving.  Either a gold plaque can be added to the front, or it can be paua engraved. 
Once you have selected the engraved option, a box will open up for you to enter your engraving details in.   You can have up to 8 words on a gold plaque, or up to 8 CHARACTERS (in capitals) paua engraved.

Engraving takes 3-4 days.  Please note that engraved items cannot be returned, aside from the unlikely event of the engraving being done wrong.

Proudly carved in New Zealand, from sustainably harvested Tulip Wood ( a hardwood).

Shipped worldwide.