Akua Kāʻai (Stick Image)

Datelate 18th-early 19th Century

GeographyHōnaunau Bay, Hawaiʻi

MediumʻIliahi (sandalwood)

Dimensionsimage height: 9 in. (22.9 cm)
height: 22 in. (55.9 cm)

ClassificationsCeremonial & Ritual Objects

Credit LinePurchase, 1962 (3075.1)

Object number3075.1

DescriptionWooden figure at top of pointed spike
Description given by Dr. Peter Buck: "Mesial spike enlarged and lengthened and there are no side wings. Mesial enlargement has front and back ridges which are coarsely notched and which end above in a blunt point. Small ridges on each side are more finely notched. Head has two elliptical eyes, broad-pointed-nose and a figure-of-8 mouth with the lips notched. Chest projects forward and is bounded below by two curved edges. Rest of body and limbs follow general pattern.

stick image is carved in the so-called Kona style. Oversize head and headdress, lozenge-shaped eyes, horizontal figure-eight-shaped mouth and slightly jutting jaw.

On View

On view