ʻApu niu (coconut shell cup)
Hawaiian Coconut Utensil. Height: 5 5/8 inches, Narrow Diameter of Bowl Origin: 4 1/2 inches, Long Circumference: 19 1/4 inches, Color: Brown, Bowl has a 3/4 opening but has been broken on the top edge. The bowl of this item has a scalloped edge. It appears to be for decorative rather than functional use. It appears to have been constructed in more recent times, since 1900, as the materials used are of contemporary origin such as the steel crew that are used to hold the bases to the bowl. Exact use is uncertain but could have been for center piece arrangements.
Made from mature coconut shells and highly polished, ʻapu niu (coconut shell cups) that were cut lengthwise were used to consume ‘awa by those of aliʻi rank or by kahuna. Apart from drinking ʻawa, there was little use for drinking cups (Buck, 1957). In more modern times the ʻapu were used as a small, individual bowl for eating poi. Modern 'apu niu may appear to have been carved in design and have a stand.