Mid-Century Monkey Pod Wood Serving Tray - Stylized Bird/Fish Form
Decorative Art/Functional Object; Hand-carved wooden server • Hawaiian or Philippine Articraftsman; often associated with brands like Blair-Hawaii or similar mid-century tiki-revival workshops.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern; Polynesian Pop/Tiki Culture movement.
Medium & Technique
Monkey Pod wood (Samanea saman); Hand-carved, sanded, and finished with a high-gloss lacquer or oil-based varnish.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s - 1960s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12-14 inches in length; elongated asymmetrical oval format.
Subject Description
An elongated, biomorphic serving vessel featuring a tapered handle with two carved notches, resembling a stylized sea creature or bird's head. The grain is prioritized to follow the organic curves of the dish.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the piece shows typical signs of age-appropriate wear and surface contact.
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $35 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD
Provenance History
Likely a tourist or export item from Hawaii or the Philippines during the post-WWII Pacific travel boom. Identified by a secondary market retail tag.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the 'Polynesian Pop' aesthetic that influenced American interior design in the mid-20th century, showcasing the use of sustainable tropical hardwoods in functional household objects.
Notable Features
Includes a contemporary retail tag identifying the material as 'Monkey Pod' and its 'Mid-Century' origin; the wood grain features characteristic swirling 'flame' patterns common to Samanea saman.
Condition Issues
Visible surface scratches, slight dulling of the finish in the well of the dish, and minor edge dings consistent with kitchen use.
Conservation Recommendations
Clean with a damp cloth; avoid soaking in water. Periodic application of food-grade mineral oil or beeswax to maintain the wood's hydration and luster.