Checkered design, this gourd measures: 36.5" at largest circumference
7" opening diameter
13" Tall
The following information is from a seasoned Volcano Art Center document...
Historical Significance of the Ipu or gourd:
“Of all the Polynesians, Hawaiians are known for their extensive use of the gourd or ipu. This traditional container, second only to the ‘ūmeke la’au or wooden bowls, represented a synthesis of beauty and functionality.
Principally used for wather and food storage, the gourd was masterfully cultivated by the Hawaiians. One gourd variety, called ipu manalo, or sweet gourd, was used for food while the non-edible ipu ‘awa’awa or bitter gourd was used for functional purposes. A third variety of ipu was extremely large and was used for storing clothing and bedding items. Only the Hawaiians raised such colossal gourds and indicated that they were knowledgeable in horticultural manipulation and selection of fruits for thousands of years.
This ipu nui mysteriously disappeared about 1870 but was restored 100 years later. During that time, various fruit flies were introduced and the growing of grounds is more difficult.
Taking nearly 6 or 8 months of growth, extra care and attention are given to the gourds’s survival.
When properly dried and prepared, the gourd becomes a vessel for many uses. Those used for water bottles are called “huewai.” The “umeke pawehe” are bowl-like and some will have lids.
Any decorative surface on a gourd is called “pawehe” and traditionally small geometric designs are put on the entire surface of an ipu. Ornamentation is diverse and much value is placed on those with high craftsmanship.
This product was added to our catalog on Tuesday 26 June, 2012.
