i Ula Tavatava

i Ula. Throwing club. i Ula are carved from the rootstock of a hardwood tree. It is intended as a weapon that can be gripped in the hand or thrown in short range distances at assailants. This i Ula consists of a lobed head and a long slender handle. The head of the i Ula is made up of nine lobes and flanged central dome. A small puncture hole in the top of the dome and side of the club's head. There are two small puncture holes on the flange. There is a significant crack down the side of the dome and between two lobes. The handle is cylindrical in shape and flares slightly towards the butt. There are seven puncture holes along the surface of the top half of the handle. One notch at the centre of the handle. A hole is drilled through the bottom of the handle for suspension. Tavatava (shallow incisions) consisting of a zigzag design is carved in light relief all around the lower half of the handle. The i Ula is brown in colour and glossy in patina.