Hawaiian
18th century
Basalt (volcanic)
Length: 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm); Width: 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi
The koʻi, or stone adze, was among the most essential tools in the Hawaiian woodworking tradition, used for felling trees, shaping timber, and the construction of canoes. Ground from dense volcanic basalt in a four-sided form tapering toward the butt end, the blade edge is shaped for horizontal hafting onto a wooden handle secured with fiber lashing. The drop tang profile along the lower body was a functional refinement that improved leverage and control during use.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Hawaiian
18th century
Basalt (volcanic)
Length: 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm); Width: 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi
The koʻi, or stone adze, was among the most essential tools in the Hawaiian woodworking tradition, used for felling trees, shaping timber, and the construction of canoes. Ground from dense volcanic basalt in a four-sided form tapering toward the butt end, the blade edge is shaped for horizontal hafting onto a wooden handle secured with fiber lashing. The drop tang profile along the lower body was a functional refinement that improved leverage and control during use.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
