The 21st Key Tradition
21 is the age that a person in New Zealand is classed as an adult, and the giving of the 21st key is a strong New Zealand tradition to symbolize opening the door of maturity and becoming an adult. Alternatively, the giving of a key is a symbol of the limitless doors they can open in their life.
Design Inspiration
The Wheku’s form is depicted from the head of an ancestor and is considered to be a sacred part of the body. The Wheku is generally found at the gable of the wharanui (maori meeting house) and is regarded as the repository of knowledge and wisdom. Representing a person of great mana and deep understanding of the lessons that can be learnt from the past as well as the present.
This artwork with its intricate design is an impressive contemporary representation of the Wheku. The key is crafted from recycled Native New Zealand Rimu veneerboard, medium density fibreboard (mdf), Gaboon veneer plywood and embellished with NZ Paua & Mother of Pearl laminate.
Size: 59cm x 22cm x 2.5cm (HxLxW)
