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 pōhaku into a long rectangular shape. It is trapezoidal in cross-section. The rectangular blade reduces towards the poll with a prominent shoulder. 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 grey in colour.

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

Adze (English)

Adze (English)

Accession Number

1950.170

Accession Date

1950

Other Id

31690.1 (ethnology)

Department

Pacific

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Ko'i, 1950.170, 31690.1, Photographed by Denise Baynham, digital, 11 Apr 2018, Cultural Permissions Apply Cultural Permissions Apply
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