North Pacific, Hawaiian Islands, Moloka'i, ca. 19th century CE. A wooden javelin or spear made from kauila wood. The weapon is simple and carved with a rounded butt end and tapering blade tip. A spear with a barbed tip is known as an "ihe laumeki," and while the barbed point is absent from this shaft, it is possible the tip broke off, an intentional occurrence when these spears hit a target. This rod-shaped piece may have also been a club handle with a stone mace head attached to the top. Hawaiian wooden tools and weapons were traditionally made from this kauila hardwood, which is now endangered due to imported cattle eating the seedlings. Kauila wood is extremely hard and dense and can actually sink in water, making it the ideal material for weapons. Size: 31.25" L x 1" W (79.4 cm x 2.5 cm)
Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection; ex-private Meyer Family collection, Moloka'I, Hawaii, USA; ex-Harvey R. Hitchcock Family collection, Molokai, Hawaii, USA
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#146479
Condition
Old inactive insect hole and cavities along the length. Chips and losses due to age, insect activity, and use. Nice patina and preservation of form.