The art of feather work dates back 1500 years to the Marquesas Islands. When Capt. Cook arrived in Hawaii in 1778, he saw impressive feather capes and Kahili that were cherished symbols of power, wealth and prestige. Feathers were carefully harvested from native birds, especially for the red and yellow colors that were reserved only for Royalty.
Hawaii textile artist John “Keoni” Miegs would market his art to Manufacturers in Hawaii with his collection each season. What did not sell to the local market he took to the mainland and worked with large customers on the West and East coasts.
He created this two-way design with prized feather Hawaiian Kahili and capes mixed with the words, Feather Cape, Hawaii and Kahilis. He studied the exhibits and reference at the Bishop Museum, creating authentic designs with his own renowned style.
