Ko‘i

human history

Ko‘i. Stone adze. Adzes were invaluable tools for Moana Pacific societies prior to the introduction of European tools and materials. They were made in a variety of sizes and shapes according to their required use. This ko‘i (adze) is presented in its complete form, worked from basalt (stone) into a long rectangular shape. It is trapezoidal in cross-section. The rectangular blade reduces towards the poll with little differentiation. The surfaces of the blade, sides and poll are left flaked. The cutting edge is blunt with a raised, polished bevel. The ko‘i is dark grey in colour.

Accession number: 1950.170 Last Update: 19 Nov 2025
Other Name

Adze (English)

Accession Number

1950.170

Accession Date

1950

Other Id

31686.2 (ethnology)

Department

Pacific

Enquire API view
7 Images
adze, 1950.170, 31686.2, Photographed by Denise Baynham, digital, 11 Apr 2018, Cultural Permissions Apply Cultural Permissions Apply
View gallery ( 7)