North Pacific, Hawaii, ca. early 20th century CE. A fabulous, hand-carved ohia wood bowl intended for use by the ali'i, or the Hawaiian noble class, displaying a concave foot, a bulbous body, impressively thin walls, and an ovoid rim with a zoomorphic figure on each end. Positioned with their arms around the vessel as if holding it, both figures present elongated limbs, clearly incised fingers, and petite heads with huge, bulging eyes. The gorgeous vessel boasts a lustrous burnish over a woodgrain of caramel hues. Ohia wood is from a native Hawaiian tree (Metrosideros polymorpha) that has a high density and produces beautiful red Ohi'a lehua flowers. Size: 19.5" L x 7.875" W x 4.625" H (49.5 cm x 20 cm x 11.7 cm)

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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#162771

Two collection labels on base and two on interior. Few light scratches and abrasions commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice patina and earthen deposits in recessed areas.