Rare 19th Century Pounamu Kaka Paria Adornment

A 19th century pounamu kaka Paria, rare pounamu kaka paria (parrot leg ring). This fine example still has remnants of the red kaka wai pigments used to adorn the finest and most important Maori adornments. With countersunk suspension hole and fine decorations to the protruding laterals, this kaka paria shows early Maori greenstone work at its finest.Kaka paria were used both as a utilitarian object and one of personal neck adornment when not in use. On custom presentation stand, depth 4.5 cm. Private collection - New Zealand.