Lot 214
Hawaiian inlaid marquetry with goddess Pele and birds, n.d. Signature at lower right. A stunning and impressively sizeable marquetry artwork depicting a mesmerizing scene of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire who is believed to have created the Hawaiian Islands arising from the earth with arms reaching toward the sky and several seabirds in flight. Pele is presented from behind as if swaying in a hula dance, her curvaceous figure only covered from the waist down, and her long tresses seductively flowing in the breeze. A finely crafted artwork, comprised of several types of exotic wood inlays, encased in an attractive integral frame, with the entire surface beautifully polished to create a warm tone. Size of image: 13.7" L x 22.75" W (34.8 cm x 57.8 cm) Size including border and frame: 24.76" L x 33.7" W (62.9 cm x 85.6 cm)
The goddess Pele is also referred to as Pele-honua-mea meaning "Pele of the sacred land" and Ka wahine 'ai honua meaning "The earth-eating woman". In various stories, she is described as having been born from the female spirit Haumea - descending from Papa, or Earth Mother, and Wakea, Sky Father - both of whom descended from the supreme entities. In addition, Pele is referred to as the goddess of the hula, and her sister Hi'iaka is believed to be the first hula dancer. Given this association, many hula chants are dedicated to Pele and her family, and the hula is oftentimes performed in a manner that captures the intensity of volcanic movement.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex-M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, acquired from 1960 to 2000
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#172756
- Condition: Signed on the lower right; however, signature is difficult to decipher. Imagery is vivid. Minor scuffs to the frame, otherwise very nice. Fitted with a suspension wire and ready to display.
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