Society Islands, French Polynesia; Maupiti attribution
18th century
Black basalt (compact, from Maupiti, Society Islands)
Height: 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm)
Provenance: Gary Seering, Aiea, Hawaiʻi
The penu is a stone pounder used across the Society Islands to process breadfruit and taro into mahi, the fermented paste equivalent to Hawaiian poi, by crushing the pulp against a stone or wooden surface. Pounders of this type are classified into three formal categories: forked top, cross-bar, and faceted top. This example belongs to the cross-bar type, the form specifically associated with Maupiti in the Society Islands group.
The piece is ground from dense black basalt quarried on Maupiti, a material recognized for its compact grain and dark coloration and used specifically for pounders of this type. The cross-bar top provides a secure grip during use, the waisted body tapering to a broad, stable base suited to sustained pounding work. The surface is even and well-finished, with the basalt retaining its characteristic dark tone throughout.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Society Islands, French Polynesia; Maupiti attribution
18th century
Black basalt (compact, from Maupiti, Society Islands)
Height: 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm)
Provenance: Gary Seering, Aiea, Hawaiʻi
The penu is a stone pounder used across the Society Islands to process breadfruit and taro into mahi, the fermented paste equivalent to Hawaiian poi, by crushing the pulp against a stone or wooden surface. Pounders of this type are classified into three formal categories: forked top, cross-bar, and faceted top. This example belongs to the cross-bar type, the form specifically associated with Maupiti in the Society Islands group.
The piece is ground from dense black basalt quarried on Maupiti, a material recognized for its compact grain and dark coloration and used specifically for pounders of this type. The cross-bar top provides a secure grip during use, the waisted body tapering to a broad, stable base suited to sustained pounding work. The surface is even and well-finished, with the basalt retaining its characteristic dark tone throughout.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
