This respectful exhibition brings to life a part of history that is lesser known in a stylishly displayed show.
© The Trustees of the British Museum
The connections that the Kānaka Maoli (native Hawaiians) with the land and gods is beautifully highlighted alongside the complex relationship between Hawaii and the United Kingdom, showcasing such a fascinating period of history.
The exquisite nature of the objects on display (many of which look as though they could have been created very recently such is the good condition they are in) have been carefully selected to showcase many of the different aspects to life in Hawaii including many of the traditions that are still held to this day. From cloaks and feathered helmets to a beautifully preserved dance rattle (also known as ‘uli’uli)
Whether it is the instruments used in performing the Hula (there is certainly more than one version) or the statues of a variety of the gods which are strikingly modern, there is plenty to dazzle here.
On a different but just as important level, this exhibition highlights the way in which royalty from two different sides of the world came together to strengthen their relationship. Tragically, King Liholiho and Queen Kamamulu died in London in 1824 before they could meet with King George IV having contracted measles. The British Museum pays tribute to them thoughtfully in with candles hanging about two exquisite portraits of them.
There is real complexity unveiled in the relationship between Hawaii and the United Kingdom in which on several occasions Hawaii asked for assistance and sadly was rarely given. The contrast in the nations is highlighted by the display of a Hawaiian cloak with a jewelled costume worn by George IV at his coronation, yet there was mutual respect in many ways as expressed through the gifts that each monarch sent each other.
Every aspect of the show is delicately handled, particularly when it has been curated with the help of indigenous Hawaii curators, community leaders and artists. The side notes beside certain objects, giving insights into why the object was selected and the importance of it adds additional depth.
Of course, there are unpleasant aspects particularly in the way in which British cartoonists handled the Hawaiian monarchs on their arrival (in one the cartoonist portrays George IV with his arms around a tattooed Polynesian) – but this is an exhibition that really celebrates Hawaii and its history.
Perhaps it could be argued that this an exhibition that could be expanded on in many ways but as it is, this is a show that is tight and concise as well as being high in quality. In addition, it is interesting to see that there a few objects on display that work is still ongoing to discover what they are and how they fit into the history of Hawaii – showing that there is still much to be discovered.
There is a real sense of magic to this exhibition that makes it enjoyable to wonder through at great leisure and in fact it is more than worthy of a second visit to really absorb everything that you see.
By Emma Clarendon
Hawaiʻi: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is on display until the 25th May.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️