Artifact Number:
04799
Object:
CLUB
Newa, Hohoa
Material:
Plant (wood), cordage
Dimensions:
L: 39.8 cm; W: 8.6 cm
Origin:
Hawaii, Hawaii, Polynesia
Comments:
Newa bought from Kuemiha of Kekaha, N. Kona, Hawaii in May 1882. He had inherited this old club from his father. It was used for many years to strike the large fish on the head as they were hauled into the canoe. He did not know how his father came to receive it. (Emerson) Kauila-wood club. Two-ply coir wound around the butt section. Resembles a hohoa tapa beater, although the butt-end is flat and slightly flared, so it is too long for that type of tool. Length 39.8 cm, maximum width 8.6 cm, weight 1190. Figure 213. (Summers) Moderate care was taken to achieve symmetry. Darkened color on the head of the implement appears to be evidence of smoking and/or fire-hardening; it has been scraped away with longitudinal strokes around the periphery of the head to reveal natural color of the wood; this circumferential band averages 12.85 cm in medial length. This moderately heavy club is only minimally well-balanced, a fact that limits its usefulness in terms of making fast, continuous movements with it. The haft has been slightly thinned to accommodate the grip. (Drager 1977: OP 15)
Collection Name: J.S. Emerson Collection
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