Discoidal (‘ulu maika)

ClassificationsTools and Equipment-sporting equipment-game stones

Datepossibly 19th Century

Made AtHawaii, United States

MediumComposite limestone

Dimensions3 × 3 × 1 1/4 in. (7.6 × 7.6 × 3.2 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mark and Carolyn Blackburn

Object number2014.7.1

DescriptionRound stones known as ‘ulu maika were used as critical pieces in one of the most popular sports in historic Hawaii. The most common form of the game was to attempt to toss this stone between two sticks placed in the ground. The stones would be thrown at a distance of approximately 30 to 40 yards on elaborate courses known as kahua maika. While there were several criteria that determined a winner, the basic objective was to avoid hitting the two sticks. Historically, women were not allowed to participate in the game; however men of all levels of the social strata could participate. Men would also use the ‘ulu maika to demonstrate their strength. The stones were thrown on land without the sticks and the man who threw the stone the furthest was the winner. After the stones were used, they were oiled and wrapped in barkcloth for safekeeping.

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