Easter Island Moai sculpture kavakava

Description

Original sculpture of a moai Kava Kava, made in Easter Island during the 20th century (circa 1970).
Size: 17 cms approx.
Condition: Good. Small detail on its face (see pictures).
For centuries, explorers and archaeologists have speculated about the enigmatic giant stone statues on Easter Island. Explanations for their existence have ranged from the idea that they were offerings to the gods to the theory that they marked freshwater sources. These mysterious objects are not the only puzzling creations made on the island — the ancient Rapa Nui civilization also carved small wooden figures, of which this moai kavakava is typical. They too have long beguiled collectors and baffled experts.
Moai kavakava, meaning ‘image with ribs’, refers to the emaciated figure’s over-developed rib cage. Another key feature of the moai kavakava is their hypnotic expression of the eye.
According to the observations of 19th-century, kava kava were worn around the necks of men during ritual feasts. Like similar traditions in other Polynesian societies, they most likely represented fertility.
By the 1900s these statues had started to attract the interest of the European avant-garde, being collected by many surrealist artist which placed their Kava Kava at the centre of their artistic practice. In deed, the figure of Kava Kava reflects both naturalistic and stylised conceptions of the human body, the corpse-like appearance seems to exude an overwhelming vitality.
Recently, kava kava moais have been sold at prices over 800,000 in Christie’s and Bonhams auctions, among others.
Shipping worldwide by registered post (with tracking number)
Once sold, the piece will need to be autorised by the Chilean Council of National Monuments and Fine Arts Direction to be sent abroad. If, due to its patrimonial value the authorisation is denied,you will be totally refounded
.