Double-sided cast bronze on granite base
13″ x 7″ high
Edition of 6 cast 2005
$8,500
This bronze depicts the ancient Hawaiian legend of the coming of taro to Hawaii. It illustrates the legend wherein Haloa Naka, the stillborn son of Wakea, the father of the Hawaiian race, is buried in the family compound and returns to life as the first taro (Colocassia esculenta). Haloa is represented by the royal palaoa (whale-ivory ornament) turning into taro leaves. The root of the taro is configured as traditional kepakepa (zigzag) repairs symbolizing Haloa’s resurrection. Circling the bronze kuahu (temple platform) base on which images of gods are displayed is this legend in raised relief: Haloa Naka ka hiapo a Waikea i ala hou e ola i ka makualii kalo (Haloa Naka, first-born of Wakea, returned to life as the first taro). The rippling design on the surface of the ahuula (royal feather cape or cloak) represents water in which this plant is traditionally grown in Hawaii.