4Hoa Hakananai’a (Easter Island Statue)
Standing tall and mysterious, Hoa Hakananai’a is one of the most striking figures in the museum’s collection. This basalt moai statue from Easter Island (Rapa Nui) dates to around AD 1200 and is carved with intricate symbols on its back associated with the island’s Birdman cult.
Its name means “stolen or hidden friend,” and its presence in London continues to spark debate about cultural heritage and repatriation. Regardless, its commanding presence is a reminder of humanity’s universal desire to honor ancestors and seek spiritual meaning through art.
Gallery: Room 24 (Living and Dying)
