When ancient jade meets Māori greenstone, sparks fly! ✨ A new AI-generated video brings New Zealand's iconic Hei Tiki pendants face-to-face with a jade dancer from the Chinese mainland's Western Han Dynasty (202 BC-8 AD).
Hei Tiki are more than ornaments—they're living whakapapa (genealogy) carriers in Māori culture, carved from pounamu (greenstone) and passed down like family treasures. On the flip side, the Chinese mainland's love affair with jade spans millennia, symbolizing harmony between heaven and earth and marking rites of passage for emperors and everyday people alike.
In the clip, a Hei Tiki figure bows respectfully, while the Han jade dancer sweeps its flowing sleeve in a graceful arc—like an ancient dance colliding with modern tech. The result? A mesmerizing loop that feels both timeless and totally now. 📲
Here's why it's a must-watch:
- Cross-cultural vibes: Jade as a shared treasure unites Asia Pacific communities.
- AI-powered art: See how smart tech can breathe new life into old stories.
- Heritage remix: It's like your favourite playlist dropping a heritage track—unexpected but fire.
Whether you're into cultural heritage, AI trends, or just love a stunning visual, this short video is your next digital snack—quick to watch, easy to share, and full of story. #StayCurious ✨
Reference(s):
Echoes of jade: New Zealand's Hei Tiki cheers for China's jade dancer
cgtn.com




