7283 x 4855 px | 61,7 x 41,1 cm | 24,3 x 16,2 inches | 300dpi
Data acquisizione:
11 luglio 2014
Ubicazione:
Lahaina, HI, USA
Altre informazioni:
Mo‘okiha O Pi‘ilani is the newest member of the Polynesian Oceangoing Canoe fraternity, built by Hui O Wa’a Kaulua, Maui's Voyaging Society. The ancient Polynesians built similar craft from large trees which they hollowed out, connecting two in parallel with cross members to provide a stable base. The crab claw sail (AKA Oceanic lateen or sprit) was triangular in shape with spars along the upper and lower edges. Traditionally, the sails were made of woven pandanus leaves which are resilient and resistant to salt water. The gathered crowd was silent, as if holding its collective breath, as Mo‘okiha O Pi‘ilani first touched the water then gently lifted off the towing rig. A moment later, the crowd erupted in rapturous applause and shouts of joy — this baby, some 18 years in gestation, had a successful birth. Checking the clock in the delivery room, it was 3:17 PM HST on Friday, July 11, 2014. As the crew checked the canoe for any issues, the crowd sat quietly waiting for the Mo‘okiha O Pi‘ilani to take its first steps (so to speak).
