Name/Title
Admiralty Islands BowlEntry/Object ID
MK_0317Description
This magnificent hardwood bowl was meticulously crafted in the 19th to 20th centuries by craftspeople in the Admiralty Islands - an archipelago of around 40 Islands in the south Pacific, now part of Papua New Guinea.
Fashioned into a rounded form, the bowl's exterior rim boasts a captivating geometric motif and features two spiral handles adorning its sides. Resting proudly on four cylindrical feet, the bowl exudes elegance and grandeur.
Amongst the peoples of the Admiralty Islands, bowls like this one held profound importance, particularly in wedding ceremonies. Carried as part of wedding processions through the village, alongside other cherished dowry gifts, they symbolized prosperity and abundance. During the bridal feast, these bowls played a central role, holding precious coconut oil—a cherished offering to celebrate the union of two souls.
A captivating addition to the Mauna Kea's collection, this hardwood bowl brings viewers a unique insight into the artistry and traditions of the peoples of the Admiralty Islands.
This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and was recently restored.Made/Created
Time Period
19th Century, 20th CenturyPlace
Island/Archipelago
Admiralty IslandsCountry
New GuineaContinent
OceaniaDimensions
Height
15-1/2 inLength
29-1/2 inLocation
Floor
8th FloorBuilding
Main TowerArea
8th Floor AtriumFloor
8th FloorBuilding
Main TowerArea
8th Floor AtriumFloor
8th FloorBuilding
Main TowerRoom
2nd Floor Art Storage RoomFloor
2nd FloorBuilding
Beach WingBuilding
IE Workshop* Untyped Location
OffsiteRoom
Kamani RoomBuilding
HBR Main TowerArea
Pool CorridorFloor
2nd FloorBuilding
Beach WingFloor
8th FloorBuilding
Main Tower