North Pacific, Hawaiian Islands, ca. early 19th century CE. A marvelous and massive poi pounding platter of rectangular form with rounded shorter sides and a shallow bowl. Carved from now-extinct Kou wood, the platter stands on 2 low feet that slightly project from the base at each shorter side. The smoothly carved surface boasts a lovely patina from years of use, showcasing a beautiful natural woodgrain with hues of chocolate brown, expresso, and caramel. Hawaii is renowned for its finely carved vessels, many of which are made of native hardwoods. In traditional Hawaiian culture, cooked taro root was pounded into poi, a staple of their diet. Taro root was steamed in an earthen oven, peeled using shells, and placed onto a slab of wood like this one to be pounded. The pounded results were blended with water to form a highly nutritious paste. Size: 52" L x 19.5" W x 5.25" H (132.1 cm x 49.5 cm x 13.3 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#166758

Stable fissures vertically down body, as well as abrasions, nicks, and chips, especially with age, all commensurate with age and use. Otherwise, excellent with nice patina.