Pitcairn Islands 'Hand of Friendship' chalices or vases, vintage c1955 mid century hand carved pair in polished hard wood outlet 20.5cm 8in tall

Pitcairn Islands handed (left hand, right hand) 'Hand of Friendship' chalices or vases, vintage c1955 mid 20th century hand carved pair in wax polished hard wood.

The small island of Pitcairn is a British overseas territory situated in the Southern Pacific Ocean. Mutineers from HMS Bounty settled on the island in the late 18th century and many of the 67 (approximate) islanders living on the island today are direct decedents of the Bounty mutineers, (which included outlet a few accompanying Tahitians). From the 1920's, islanders started handcrafting items from local hardwood; including flying fish, birds and friendship chalices which were sold to visitors as souvenirs. This example of two paired and handed friendship chalices are rare and in excellent condition with a pleasing polished patina.

Date mark: None. Each chalice is stamped on the upper base with 'Souvenir from Pitcairn', markings that began as tourism increased from World War II. This pair of vases were purchased new on Pitcairn by a British military officer.

Size: Width (top) 8.5cm 3.3in, Height 20.5cm 8in.

Condition: Excellent. Probably unused. Any production marks such as knots, holes and dents were acceptable to the small number of indigenous artisans and have been over-polished prior to sale. Please study the photographs which form part of the description.