North Pacific, Hawaii, ca. mid-20th century CE. A beautiful round-bottomed vessel carved from finely grained milo wood known as an "umeke," (also "umeke la'au pakaka") a high-status bowl used for eating poi. The vessel presents a flat, circular base and thick walls that flare gently outwards to a rounded, annular rim. The gorgeous natural woodgrain boasts hues of caramel, espresso, and chocolate that nicely complement the vessel's elegant form. Hawaiian royalty often valued specific vessels - even going so far as to name them after royal individuals - and were reserved for elites in society until the early 19th century. Prior to the 19th century, vessels like this example were made from kou, milo, and kamani wood using stone and coral tools. A wonderful example from the Hawaiian Islands! Size: 9" in diameter x 4" H (22.9 cm x 10.2 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, acquired 1960 to 2000

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#166518

Collection label on base and remains of collection label on interior. A few minor nicks on exterior and abraded areas on interior, commensurate with age and use. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice patina.