figure

In the Pacific, figure sculptures may represent mythical heroes, ancestors, gods or personified forces of the natural and supernatural world. Some figures are designed to stand free, others are part of functional tools or architectural structures. They are not idols to be worshipped but act to concentrate aspects of the spirit world into a material representation which enables communication between humanity and the spirit world.

Moai figures are thought to be carvings of ancestors. This moai figure is carved from a branch of wood. The figure twists along with the branch.