Fine Austral Islands Coral Pounder "penu"
19th century
Height 6 1/4"
Provenance: Gary Seering, Aiea, HI
A very rare type of coral pounder from the Austral Islands of Polynesia, this hefty pestle, intended for pounding taro root into poi, is finely carved from a single piece of white sea coral. Its form is comprised of a crescent-shaped handle and a tubular neck that broadens to a generous pounding surface. Note how the natural textures and patterns of the coral are utterly mesmerizing.
19th century
Height 6 1/4"
Provenance: Gary Seering, Aiea, HI
A very rare type of coral pounder from the Austral Islands of Polynesia, this hefty pestle, intended for pounding taro root into poi, is finely carved from a single piece of white sea coral. Its form is comprised of a crescent-shaped handle and a tubular neck that broadens to a generous pounding surface. Note how the natural textures and patterns of the coral are utterly mesmerizing.
19th century
Height 6 1/4"
Provenance: Gary Seering, Aiea, HI
A very rare type of coral pounder from the Austral Islands of Polynesia, this hefty pestle, intended for pounding taro root into poi, is finely carved from a single piece of white sea coral. Its form is comprised of a crescent-shaped handle and a tubular neck that broadens to a generous pounding surface. Note how the natural textures and patterns of the coral are utterly mesmerizing.