Home > Arts > Artists > W > John Webber
King Polaho drinking kava in a longhouse, Tonga
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
King Polaho drinking kava in a longhouse, Tonga
King Polaho drinking kava in a longhouse, Tonga (Friendly Islands). Handcoloured copperplate engraved by Sasso after John Webber from Giulio Ferrarios Ancient and Modern Costumes of all the Peoples of the World, Florence, Italy, 1844
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23174002
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Beverage Ceremony Ferrario Friendly Giulio Peoples Sasso Tonga Kava Longhouse Sedative
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> F
> Giulio Ferrario
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> John Webber
> Europe
> Italy
> Tuscany
> Florence
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
> Oceania
> Tonga
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
King Poulaho of Tonga (also known as King Polaho) is depicted in this handcoloured copperplate engraving, engaging in the traditional Tongan kava ceremony in a longhouse, or "fale," of the Friendly Islands. Kava, a sedative and relaxant beverage made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, plays a significant role in Tongan culture and social life. The ceremony, which involves the preparation and presentation of the kava, is a formal and respected event that brings people together in a spirit of unity and harmony. King Poulaho, dressed in the regal attire of his time, sits on a mat, surrounded by other men, all of whom are also partaking in the ceremony. The longhouse, with its high thatched roof and open sides, allows for a cool breeze to circulate, adding to the overall sense of relaxation and tranquility. The intricate handcoloured details of the engraving, created by the skilled hand of Sasso after the original painting by John Webber, provide a vivid and authentic portrayal of this important cultural practice in Tonga during the 19th century. Giulio Ferrario's "Ancient and Modern Costumes of all the Peoples of the World," published in Florence, Italy in 1844, was a comprehensive and visually stunning work that documented the traditional dress and customs of various ethnic groups from around the world. This image of King Poulaho and the kava ceremony in Tonga is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the South Pacific and the enduring significance of traditional practices in the face of modernization.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
