Kava bowl

A hardwood kava or yaqona bowl (called a tanoa) with geometric carving around the rim, and cowrie shells on a sinnet (coir) cord.  Bowls for the preparation and drinking of yaqona are particularly valued in Fijian society as a central part of public ritual. The deepest bowls are used for serving the drink in traditional welcome ceremonies, during which the honoured guest receives a cup of yaqona. The drink is made by pounding the yaqona root to a powder before combining with water and straining. The cord at the front would be used for hanging up the bowl when not in use.

Presented to HM King Charles III when Prince of Wales by the President of the Republic of Fiji, HE Ratu Josepfa Iloilovatu Uluivuda, 2005.