Kava bowl (kumete), Tonga Islands Height: 21.5 cm Wood and seashell. Used for preparing and serving kava, the kumete played an essential role in traditional Tongan ceremonies. This beautiful example (though chipped) still has a seashell suspended from one of its handles—a detail characteristic of certain antique bowls—which highlights the care taken in crafting these ceremonial vessels. Provenance: American gallery.