Oceania
Maori peoples, New Zealand
Pendant, Hei Tiki
Nineteenth century
Nephrite, haliotis shell
H. 9 in. (22.9 cm)
Raymond and Laura Wielgus Collection
Indiana University Art Museum, 80.5.2

For the Maori of New Zealand, nephrite, a form of jade, was the most prestigious material. Found only on New Zealand's South Island, the green stone was imported to the more populous North Island and used for weapons, tools, and ornaments, including pendants such as this. A hei tiki, of which this is the largest one known, was an heirloom, passed down through generations and believed to acquire some of the spiritual power possessed by each wearer.