Adzes and adze-like implements from eastern Australia

Abstract

Occasional edge-ground adzes have been recorded from scattered localities in Australia, and their existence as a type has been referred to by the author (1939, 4-5, figs. 2 and 8; 1940b, 227, fig.), and Noone (1943,274-5, 279, figs. 10-12, 30-31). In this paper is given a description of the examples in the collection of the Australian Museum. The chief characteristic of the adze is the asymmetrical blade with its edge above or below the middle; the upper facet is usually rounded, and the lower facet varies from convex to concave and is often at a steep angle. Such implements are hafted, with the blade at a right angle to the haft. The body of the adze varies widely in shape and in Oceania embraces examples with round, lenticular, rectangular, trapezoid, or triangular section.