Name/Title
Thai HongsaEntry/Object ID
MK_0053Description
In Thai mythology, the Hongsa, akin to a swan or goose, is a bird of passage.
The word Hongsa is derived from the Indian Hamsa. In Indian mythology the Hamsa is a mythical bird of passage representing the release of the soul from the cycle of life - a central goal in Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism.
This stylized Thai Hongsa bird from the 20th century stands proudly with wings gracefully outstretched, embellished with intricate inlaid glass detailing. In its prominent place in the Mauna Kea’s lobby, this captivating piece invites viewers to not only behold its beauty, but consider the layers of symbolism woven into its form, offering a glimpse into the spiritual aspirations that transcend time and cultural boundaries.
You might see this object referred to as Fabulas Bird in historic collection reference materials, but recent research by the Mauna Kea team has revealed a more accurate way to refer to this object.
This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel. Longtime guests may have previously seen this peice with just wood, glittering gems and limited gilding, but the peice was very recently restored and regilded, so it now glows golden across the entire body.Made/Created
Time Period
20th CenturyPlace
Country
ThailandContinent
AsiaDimensions
Height
72-1/4 inHeight
92-1/4 inHeight
20 inWidth
30 inLength
30 inLocation
Area
Main LobbyFloor
Lobby LevelBuilding
Main TowerRoom
Kamani RoomBuilding
HBR Main TowerArea
Main LobbyFloor
Lobby LevelBuilding
Main TowerRoom
Engineering AtticFloor
Promenade LevelBuilding
Main TowerRoom
Garden RoomFloor
Promenade LevelBuilding
Main Tower