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Pūloʻuloʻu, often called "kapu sticks", are symbols denoting thekapu of Hawaiianaliʻi (chiefs or royals) and symbolizing the deceased ancestors of thealiʻi. They are traditional symbols of authority which are used in modern times including theSeal of the State of Hawaii.
Pūloʻuloʻu are often called "kapu sticks". They were symbol of the authority and protection of thealiʻi (chiefs) ofAncient Hawaii and also represented themana (spiritual power) of the aliʻi.[1][2] It was made by wrapping bundles ofkapa cloth on a stick. They were given ancestral names and placed in areas of prominence. They represented the ancestors of an aliʻi who had died and return from Po (heaven). The round shape denoted the shape of stars as seen from the traditional Hawaiian perspective. They often contain the relics of deceased ancestors such as bones, teeth, hair and other important remains.[3] Their use as symbols of the kapu was introduced byPaʻao, a high priest (kahuna nui) fromKahiki.[4]
The pūloʻuloʻu were often placed at the residence of the aliʻi, at aheiau (temple) and at the burial sites of the aliʻi.[5][6] Whaling captainAlfred N. Tripp gave KingKalākaua a pūloʻuloʻu made of anarwhal tusk on the occasion of the king's 1883 coronation.[7][8] The tusk, which measured seven feet two inches, was capped with a golden sphere and is currently displayed in the throne room ofʻIolani Palace between the two thrones of Kalākaua andQueen Kapiʻolani.[7][8] The pūloʻuloʻu are also displayed at theRoyal Mausoleum of Hawaii at Mauna ʻAla where they are placed in the chapel and where metal representations are placed outside the chapels and the crypts.[9]
The coat of arms of theHawaiian Kingdom and theseal of the State of Hawaii features the pūloʻuloʻu as a symbol of authority.[2][10]
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Media related toPūloʻuloʻu at Wikimedia Commons