Rapa Nui
Anthropomorphic Lizard Figure (Moai Moko)
Rapa Nui People, 1800-1832
Physical Qualities
Wood, fish bone, 3 15/16 x 4 5/16 x 14 9/16 in. (10 x 11 x 37 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Alan Wurtzburger
Object Number
1955.251.187
Wooden sculpture resembles crouched or swimming figure bearing lizard mask with flattened snout, human nose and exaggerated eyes. The eyes have been inlaid with fish bone but the right inlay is missing. The wood appears finely polished. Easter Island deities maintain various identities or manifestations. The lizard is associated with fresh water and rain that provide life for humans.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 1955; Alan Wurtzburger
"The Alan Wurtzburger Collection of Oceanic Art", January 7th-March 4th 1956, Baltimore Museum of Art
Kevin Tervala, "Oceanic Art Collection Installation" (December 12, 2021 - Indefinite)
Kevin Tervala, "Oceanic Art Collection Installation" (December 12, 2021 - Indefinite)
Douglas F. Fraser & Paul S. Wingret, "The Wurtzburger Collection of Oceanic Art". Baltimore Museum of Art. 1956 pg. 39. cat no. 187.
Kevin Tervala, "Oceanic Art at The Baltimore Museum of Art," Tribal Arts Magazine 104 (Summer 2022): 106-113. Illustrated on pg. 112.
On View at the BMA
