Restored portrait of Poʻomaikelani returns to ʻIolani Palace

A portrait of Virginia Kapoʻoloku Poʻomaikelani, Princess and Governor of Hawaiʻi Island, has returned to public view at ʻIolani Palace after undergoing conservation and restoration treatment. The unveiling was marked with a cultural protocol ceremony led by members of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I.

Originally painted in 1885 by Serbian artist Paul Petrovits, the portrait was one of three commissioned by King Kalākaua, including himself, his wife Queen Kapiʻolani, and the Queen’s sister, Poʻomaikelani. The Poʻomaikelani portrait was returned in 1972 and has been part of the Palace collection since then. About a year ago, it was sent for professional conservation and now hangs in the Kingʻs bedroom.

“She’s been in our care for decades, but this is the first time in many years she’s been on display following conservation,” said ʻIolani Palace Curator Leona Hamano. “It’s an important moment, as this portrait was created during a significant era in our kingdom’s history.”

The preservation is part of ongoing efforts to conserve and celebrate na mea makamae (Hawaiian treasures) at “Iolani Palace. With continued community support, the Friend of ʻIolani Palace and curatorial staff aim to restore and display the remaining two Petrovits portraits by the end of 2026.

Those interested in supporting these conservation initiatives are encouraged to donate or become a member of The Friends of ʻIolani Palace. For more information, visit www.iolanipalace.org.