#20 • "The Lunalilo Heirloom" - Marcus Castaing's Handcrafted Curly Koa Wood Clothing Chest

Part of 05/07 The Estate of: Thomas D. King Jr. Auction Kilauea (Kauai) (timed auction by Malama Auctions & Realty)

High bid $6,905.00

Status: Sold

"The Lunalilo Heirloom," a masterful recreation of King Lunalilo's clothing chest, meticulously handcrafted by the esteemed artisan Marcus Castaing. Residing in Na'alehu on the Big Island, Castaing is renowned for his dedication to preserving Hawaiian heritage through exceptional woodworking. This clothing chest, a testament to skilled artisanship, is constructed from the finest Curly Koa wood, a material revered for its depth, character, and the shimmering, wavy patterns that grace its surface. Each panel and column emanates a warm, honeyed glow, inviting admiration and reverence. Castaing, in a labor of passion and precision, ventured to the Bishop Museum to measure the original belonging to King Lunalilo, the cherished monarch known for his advocacy for his people. Over three painstaking years, Castaing transformed Koa wood into this regal piece, echoing the essence of the original with a craftsman’s touch. The chest stands as a functional piece of history, a sublime fusion of form and utility. It features robust construction, meticulous joinery, and a finish that highlights the wood's natural allure. Accompanied by a set of keys, it invites one to safeguard garments and valuables with the same care afforded by royalty. Condition: The chest is in excellent condition, reflective of its well-maintained provenance since its commission in 1993. The integrity of the Curly Koa wood is superb, with the grain patterns vibrant and intact. Provenance: Acquired in 1993 for $8,500, this piece comes with a detailed account of its creation and origin, including documentation of Castaing's process and his study of the original at the Bishop Museum.