An exceptional exhibition quality Lewis Gardiner carved pounamu bird sculpture, 'Korihi Te Manu', in the very rare Kahotea-Kahurangi pounamu variety from Kowhaka Creek, Arahura. In a vibrant mid-green tone with white feathered effects to the back of the carving, the bird with human female mask carved to the front, her moku decorating the tail feathers, exceptionally fine and stylised detail, serrated paua shell ring inset eyes, Marsden Flower jade beak and 18ct. yellow gold applied in moko form. Height 23.5 cm. Mounted on greenstone river worn boulder section with strong pale toned rind and steel rod. Note: this carving in contemporary asymmetrical style was a special commission, with the consent of the buyer, it was entered into the Aotearoa New Zealand Jade Awards where it won first equal overall placing in 2014, it also won at the same awards 'Winner Traditional Design' and 'Winner People's Choice Award', copies of awards available. Note: Lewis is regarded as one of the leading pounamu jade artists in Aotearoa. He graduated from Waiariki Institute of Technology in Rotorua in 1994 and became a full-time jade and bone carver. 'Lewis has the amazing ability to carve in the traditional style but prefers to lead by exploring new contemporary interpretations in jade carving'. Note: the pounamu used in this carving is of gem quality and comes with individual bar code record of authentication.