Snake Medicine Collars 2023

Description

Title: Snake Medicine Collars 2023

Artist: Noel Herkes Tekai nee Bennetto

Iwi: Chiricahua Nde Apache, Indigenous-Mexican

Matū: Denim, bias binding, textile ink

Size: One Size, fits all

Dimensions: 0.2kg – 500 X 380 X 1 mm

Description: Medicine Collars

Powerful Snake medicine, a medicinal garment accessory designed by Noel, worn as a collar by wāhine Taketake with a purpose.  Perfect to add for ceremonial wear and regalia dependant on the situation.

The Snake in Native culture has varying meanings and warnings that are good or bad, positive or negative.  Some of Snake’s stories teach humans valuable lessons and some are ancient prophecies depending on the beliefs of different cultures.

The symbolism of the Snake depicted represents lightning because Snakes are the physical manifestation of lightning on earth, connected to the waterbeings that bring sustenance to land and people.  The shape of a crooked Snake depicts a lightning bolt, recognised by many other cultures around the world and known to some as the Rainbow Serpent.  

As a kaitiaki or guardian, the Snake is an important symbol of rebirth, transformation and healing.  The shedding of it’s skin is the celebration of new life, growth and change.