UH Hilo Center for Maunakea Stewardship - Research Library

Prehistoric production, distribution, and use of stone adzes : implications for the development of Hawaiian chiefdoms

Author:
Withrow, Barbara
Title:
Prehistoric production, distribution, and use of stone adzes : implications for the development of Hawaiian chiefdoms
Year:
1991
Volume:
Ph.D.
Pages:
vi, 322 leaves
Subject:
Adzes Hawaii Island Mauna Kea Adzes Quarry Chiefdoms Hawaii Hawaii antiquities
Summary:
The primary goal of this research is to determine whether stone adzes were subject to redistribution and/or specialized production in the prehistoric development of cultural complexity in Hawaii. Adzes from previously excavated archaeological sites on Hawaii Island were traced to their original sources by petrographic analysis. The use of many small stone sources in addition to the major Mauna Kea Quarry suggests that adzes were not subject to centralized redistribution. It is possible that there is no evidence that adzes were produced by attached craft specialists who were sponsored or directed by the Hawaiian chiefs. The degree of homogeneity in finished adzes is also assessed as a possible indicator of craft specialization. Adzes are quite homogeneous in form and size; however, there is no change in the degree of homogeneity over time, and many other factors including intended function and postmanufacturing processes can affect the shape and size of adzes.
Collection:
Monographs