T R A D I T I O N A L
with chain
Pa
Tokelauan for "Lure"
The pa is a part of a full form pa hi atu (Bonito Lure)
Gifted as a blessing to every Tokelauan bride by a brother or male relative, the Pa has many meanings, one of importance is that it is a symbol of everlasting love. The shell (Mother of Pearl) would last a lifetime and when carved into a Pa, is intended for the new husband to catch fish with and feed his wife and their children for life.
Today, the Pa is still well treasured in the Tokelauan culture as gifts for special occasions, especially to the women.
Every Pa is unique in nacre appearance, there are no two identical pa.
Pa hi atu
This is a full form pa hi atu (Fish lure and hook),
The pa hi atu is a large fish lure and hook, mainly used to catch big fish like tuna. This hook would be used with large bamboo rods ranging from lengths of 5 to 7 meters.
Historically, it was bound with coconut fiber and bird feathers instead of the nylon as seen in the photos.
Even with the advancement of fishing technology the pa hi atu is still used today for its quick and efficient catch.
Tokelau still celebrates the tradition of gifting the pa hi atu to young men in the ceremony called Kaukumete. It would be gifted in recognition for their skill and work they have done to contribute to Tokelau's livelihood and culture.
Drawn with Krita
Lavahi is the string or cord that keeps the bait attached to the Matau (hook). The piece shown is of the yellow-lip pearl shell, the brown part is a layer of natural coral that grows on the outer and protects the pearl and oyster.
Matau
The Matau (hook) is another type of fishing hook. Traditionally, it was also made of wood.
You will find that the fishing hook is a well regarded symbol in many Polynesian cultures as it represents protection and good fortune, particularly while out at sea.
Matātoki
or Toki
The Matātoki or toki is the blade of the adze, traditionally, one of the most useful tools in Tokelau.
The adze was used to chisel and
carve to into wood. Creating resourceful devices and structures important to sustaining life in Tokelau, like the Vaka (canoe).
It is also recognized and used by many different cultures, especially by the Maori people of Aotearoa (New Zealand); it was traditionally a tool wielded by Maori chiefs.
Today, the toki can be worn ornamentally and is often gifted as a celebration of ones strength, courage, success and power.
With Pāua