Oceania, French Polynesia, probably the Austral Islands or Tahiti, ca. 19th century CE. An impressive feast dish known as an umete, skillfully hand-carved from a single piece of wood in the form of a canoe with a slightly rounded base and thick walls that taper to an ovoid rim above a shallow basin. The stern and bow of the fine vessel extend outwards, forming lengthy handles and allowing the dish to be easily carried. Umete were high status bowls used to serve food at communal feasts throughout Polynesia. Size: 30.2" L x 5.3" W x 2.5" H (76.7 cm x 13.5 cm x 6.4 cm)

According to the British Antique Dealers' Association, "The introduction of metal tools and nails helped and allowed this brief, but dramatic efflorescence in Austral carving. The profusely ornamented artefacts finding a ready market amongst the visitors to the Islands. Before the beginning of the 19th century much was left plain with subtle partly carved shapes as the wood was stone carved. W. Ellis in his 'Polynesian Researches' (1829II:181) states that dishes such as this example were used to rinse the hands before eating. Food was also served and eaten from wooden dishes of varying sizes each with a distinctive oval shape and with a raised projection on the rim at the wider end. So it is probable that these dishes were used for both purposes."

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired 1995 to 2010

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#168181

Collection label on base. Expected nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age and use. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice patina.