North Pacific, Hawaiian Islands, Pre-Contact era, ca. 18th century CE or earlier. A sizable stone adze blade of a utilitarian form that is hand-carved from dark gray-black basalt. The tool exhibits a thick body, a curved handle, and an acutely angled blade edge that is relatively sharp. Both the head and body bear a surprisingly smooth texture that is pleasing to the touch. Adzes are called "ko'i" in Polynesia, and it seems they were traded widely; indeed, axes from Hawaii have been found thousands of miles away in what is now French Polynesia, demonstrating the incredible skill of Polynesian navigators. Size: 7.3" L x 2.5" W (18.5 cm x 6.4 cm)
Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance),
we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#160933
Condition
Chips and light abrasions to handle, blade head, and body, with minor pitting in scattered areas, otherwise intact and very good. Great surface smoothness throughout.