Name/Title
Zanzibari ChestEntry/Object ID
MK_0361Description
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 (including Diu, Surat and Bombay), the Arabian peninsula (including Basra and Iraq) and East Africa, especially the Tanzanian island archipelago, Zanzibar.
This captivating studded chest, hailing from Zanzibar but thought to have been crafted by Indian artisans, is a relic of this remarkable period. Likely utilized to house clothing, spices, jewelry, or other valuable items, the hardwood chest features a hinged lid and is accented with geometrically-placed brass hobnails and decorative metal plates, typical of the contemporaneous style. 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 very recently restored. Longtime guests of the hotel may have previously seen this piece displayed in the Main Lobby of the hotel, and also on the 1st floor of the Beach Wing.Made/Created
Time Period
18th Century, 19th CenturyPlace
Island/Archipelago
ZanzibarCountry
TanzaniaContinent
AfricaDimensions
Height
24 inWidth
21 inLength
47 inLocation
Area
Pool CorridorFloor
2nd FloorBuilding
Beach WingArea
8th Floor AtriumFloor
8th FloorBuilding
Main TowerRoom
Kauna'oa BallroomFloor
Promenade LevelBuilding
Main TowerFloor
1st FloorBuilding
Beach WingArea
Main LobbyFloor
Lobby LevelBuilding
Main Tower