Variability in poi pounders from Kaua'i island, Hawai'i

Abstract

Hawaiian poi pounders are unique artifacts which have received inadequate attention from the archaeological community. Three varieties of poi pounders are recognized today: the common knobbed form, ring pounders, and stirrup pounders. These artifacts have never been systematically analyzed, and a great deal of variability exists within the three categories. This research utilizes paradigmatic classification to examine stylistic variability in poi pounder morphology. The seriation method is used to illuminate patterns of interaction and transmission through time and space among Hawaiian groups. Functional analyses are carried out to help explain processes of selection and interaction between poi pounders and the environment. The spatial extent of this research is limited to the island of Kauaʻi, which is historically known for its distinctive poi pounder forms.