North Pacific, Hawaiian Islands, ca. 19th century CE. A hand-carved bone beater of sizable form – known as a hohoa – used in the practice of beating kapa (or tapa) barkcloth. Both sides of the ovoid beater head have sustained countless blows, one side significantly more than the other, with an integral handle extending below. The porous bone allows the tool to be structurally stable yet lightweight, making for an optimal material for this type of work. Kapa barkcloth is created by continuously pounding rough bark cloth until the fibers align properly to create seamless sheets of usable cloth. Size: 2.25″ L x 3″ W x 11″ H (5.7 cm x 7.6 cm x 27.9 cm); 12.625″ H (32.1 cm) on included custom stand.
Condition: Wear to both sides of beater head commensurate with use, with darkening to surfaces and ossification commensurate with age, otherwise in great condition. Nice surface smoothness throughout.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 2000 to 2010
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