Collectibles
Beautifully Hand Decorated Huewai (gourd)
- Item Number
- 184
- Estimated Value
- 350 USD
- Sold
- 130 USD to Anniespicer
- Number of Bids
- 5 - Bid History
Item Description
Centuries ago, ancient people used containers made of gourds to store and carry water. In Hawaii, these water gourds were called huewai. Most huewai were unadorned but some early explorers to Hawaii described uniquely decorated water gourds they saw on Ni`ihau, the northern-most inhabited Hawaiian island. The smooth, shiny surface of these gourds were decorated with lines, geometric shapes and patterns. This huewai is approximately 15 inches high and 10 inches in diameter.
Crafted from gourds grown in Kona, Hawaii, this huewai is designed with a wana (sea urchin) pattern using the natural tannin dyes from the koa tree. The application of the designs is derived from the ancient Ni'ihau technique, remarkable in Polynesia. The hawele, or carrying net, is made from twisted sennit (coconut fiber) tied without knots in the traditional way.
Item Special Note
Winning bidder is responsible for shipping and handling and Hawaii state tax .
Donated By:
David Young
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