pu (shell horn), unknown maker from the United States

Artwork Overview

pu (shell horn)
pu (shell horn)
pu (shell horn)
late 1800s–1992
pu (shell horn) , late 1800s–1992
Where object was made: Maui, Hawaii, United States
Material/technique: conch shell
Dimensions:
Object Height/Width/Length (Height x Width x Length): 14 x 15.5 x 16.5 cm
Object Height/Width/Length (Height x Width x Length): 5 1/2 x 6 1/8 x 6 1/2 in
Credit line: Betty Austin Hensley Flutes of the World
Accession number: 2007.0541
Not on display
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Exhibition Label: "Roots and Journeys: Encountering Global Arts and Cultures," Jul-2011, Nancy Mahaney Hawaiians create instruments from the pu or conch shell by removing the small tip. These horns naturally produce just one note, but a performer can create multiple sounds by manipulating the pitch or adjusting the placement of his hands and fingers inside the curve of the shell. A master performer can create a sound loud enough to be heard up to 2 miles away. Today, pu horns are played to honor royalty, begin a traditional ceremony, and announce the opening of the Hawaii State Legislature.