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Feathered god
Object Number 37-4-70/530
Display Title Feathered god
Descriptions
Object Description Wicker-work idol, formerly covered with feathers - the favorite god of Kekuaokalani. To this idol two human sacrifices were offered at the commencement of the battle [between Kamehameha I and Kekuaokulani], which decided the fate of idolatry in the Sandwich Islands. The eyes of this idol have been torn out, many of its teeth are gone, the feathers are mostly rubbed off from the face, and its whole appearance indicates that it has received harsh treatment.
Inventory Description Sculpture, anthropomorphic head, netting with feathers, human hair, animal teeth
Classification
  • Sculpture
Department Ethnographic
Date before 1833
Culture
  • Hawaiian
Geography/Provenience/Site Name
Oceania / United States / Hawaii
Materials Vegetable fiber, Human hair, Animal tooth, Feather, Fiber
Dimensions Overall: 58 x 20 x 23 cm (22 13/16 x 7 7/8 x 9 1/16 in.)
Quantity 1
Label on object 37-4-70/530
Credit Line Gift of Dr. Alfred M. Tozzer, 1937
Provenance
Owner Andover Theological Seminary
Collector Rev. William Richards (Before 1833)
Donor Donated by Dr. Alfred M. Tozzer (1937)

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