Lot 346

19th C. Hawaii Kou Wood Umeke Calabash Bowl

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19th C. Hawaii Kou Wood Umeke Calabash Bowl

Estimate: $8,000 - $12,000

Starting Bid: $4,000

(0 Bids)

June 12, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
Louisville, CO, US

Description:

Kingdom of Hawaii, ca. 19th century.. Hawaiian kou calabash bowls were used primarily for poi, a staple food made by mixing water with pounded taro root to create a smooth, pudding-like consistency. This preparation method was uniquely Hawaiian, and these bowls were crafted specifically to hold and serve poi. Kou wood was highly valued for its durability and for its rich reddish-brown heartwood contrasted with golden-yellow sapwood tones long associated with Hawaiian royalty. This large kou calabash bowl dates from the 19th century (circa early 1800’s-1880’s) and was acquired in consultation with a widely recognized authority on Hawaiian calabash bowls, whose expertise informed its attribution and dating. Size: 13”W x 7”H (33 x 17.8cm).

Provenance: Old Maui Collection.

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Item # 71779

  • Condition: The bowl exhibits numerous traditional repair patches, including on the bottom.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 + $1,000