Hawaiian
Circa 1800
Kou wood (Cordia subcordata)
Height: 4 in. (10.2 cm); Diameter: 10 1/4 in. (26 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
The umeke, or wooden bowl, was central to Hawaiian domestic life, used for serving and storing food including poi, fish, and meat preparations. Kou wood was among the most valued materials for Hawaiian vessel production, prized for its fine grain, density, and the warm amber patina it develops with age and use. This example dates to circa 1800 and comes from a private Honolulu collection.
The form features a rounded body with a distinctive inward-curving upper wall, a profile less common than the standard straight-sided umeke and indicative of considered shaping. The exterior surface is smooth and even, the wood having developed a deep reddish-brown patina consistent with sustained handling over time. Native repairs are present, indicating the bowl was valued and maintained actively during its period of use.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Hawaiian
Circa 1800
Kou wood (Cordia subcordata)
Height: 4 in. (10.2 cm); Diameter: 10 1/4 in. (26 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
The umeke, or wooden bowl, was central to Hawaiian domestic life, used for serving and storing food including poi, fish, and meat preparations. Kou wood was among the most valued materials for Hawaiian vessel production, prized for its fine grain, density, and the warm amber patina it develops with age and use. This example dates to circa 1800 and comes from a private Honolulu collection.
The form features a rounded body with a distinctive inward-curving upper wall, a profile less common than the standard straight-sided umeke and indicative of considered shaping. The exterior surface is smooth and even, the wood having developed a deep reddish-brown patina consistent with sustained handling over time. Native repairs are present, indicating the bowl was valued and maintained actively during its period of use.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
