Zanzibari Chest

Name/Title

Zanzibari Chest

Entry/Object ID

MK_0364

Description

This captivating studded chest, hailing from Zanzibar but thought to have been crafted by Indian artisans, is a relic of a remarkable period of trade and travel in the Indian Ocean. During the 18th and 19th centuries, trade in the Indian Ocean grew exponentially, connecting the peoples of South Asia, East Africa, and the Gulf States. This was especially true between the Muslim peoples across this region, as early Muslim communities were set up in Southeast Asian countries, and trade strengthened between ports in north-west India (Diu; Surat; Bombay), the Arabian peninsula (Basra, Iraq) and East Africa, especially the Tanzanian island archipelago, Zanzibar. This chest is reflective of the rich links that formed between these communities. Likely utilized to house clothing, spices, jewelry, or other valuable items, this hardwood chest features a hinged top lid and four lower drawers, and is decorated elaborate brass hardware, fittings and hobnail work across face and top surfaces, typical of the contemporaneous style. Placed in the Mauna Kea's main lobby, this piece is now used for decorative purposes, its majesty inviting guests to consider the rich and storied histories of the communities of the Indian Ocean. This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and was recently restored. Guests may have previously seen this chest displayed in the Main Lobby, the first floor of the hotel's Beach Wing, and the Kauna'oa Ballroom.

Artwork Details

Medium

Wood

Made/Created

Artist

Artist unknown

Time Period

19th Century

Place

Island/Archipelago

Zanzibar

Country

Tanzania

Continent

Africa

Dimensions

Height

30-1/4 in

Width

25 in

Length

50-1/4 in

Location

Area

5th Floor Atrium

Floor

5th Floor

Building

Main Tower

Area

Main Lobby

Floor

Lobby Level

Building

Main Tower

Room

Kauna'oa Ballroom

Floor

Promenade Level

Building

Main Tower

Area

Beach Corridor

Floor

1st Floor

Building

Beach Wing

Floor

5th Floor

Building

Main Tower