ʻApu niu (coconut shell cup)
Hawaiian Coconut Utensil. Height: 1 3/4 inches, Diameter of Bowl Mouth: 4 inches, Circumference: 12 3/4 inches, Edges: Smooth. This item is the cover for item 336. It has a hole that was made through on of the eyes of the coconut, possibly to allow a straw to pass through. Black residue remains at the peak of the lid suggesting that something was at one time fastened to it.
Cultural narrative: 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.