Name/Title
Japanese HibachiEntry/Object ID
MK_0193Description
Step back in time to 19th-century Japan with this captivating solid hardwood hibachi, adorned with a copper liner, the heavy bowl resting on a flaring base. Crafted for the purpose of grilling fish and meats over hot charcoals, this hibachi stands as a testament to the rich culinary and cultural history that shaped its evolution.
The roots of the hibachi trace back to the 17th century during the Edo period, a time of peace and social stability under the Tokugawa Shogunate. As Japan experienced population growth and innovation across industries, the foodservice sector thrived. The rise of the chaya, a multifaceted establishment combining tavern, restaurant, and teahouse, played a pivotal role in feeding the growing populace. The success of the chaya model influenced the development of chaya culture, impacting how the Japanese approached food preparation in their homes.
In the midst of this culinary renaissance, these charcoal-burning grills emerged as a significant element influenced by chaya culture. It was in this context that a chaya restaurant owner decided to experiment with grilling fish on a charcoal-burning grill, sparking a culinary revolution. The popularity of grilled fish soared, leading to the establishment of specialized tonya, restaurants dedicated solely to the preparation of grilled fish. The charcoal-burning grill, originally a novel addition, soon became a staple in every Japanese household, playing a pivotal role in the preparation of a myriad of Japanese dishes. This 19th-century piece, thought to have originally been a mortar, was probably converted into a hibachi, further signifying the shift towards hibachi use in contemporary Japanese history. With its functional design, this hibachi embodies the enduring legacy of this transformative period in Japanese culinary history.
This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and was very recently restored. Guests may have previously seen this piece on the 7th floor of the main tower and in the hotel's beach wing.Made/Created
Time Period
19th CenturyPlace
Country
JapanContinent
AsiaLocation
Area
5th Floor AtriumFloor
5th FloorBuilding
Main TowerFloor
7th FloorBuilding
Main TowerFloor
3rd FloorBuilding
Beach WingFloor
5th FloorBuilding
Main Tower