Figure of a Polynesian God (A'a) 19th/20th century, carved wood.

In the early nineteenth century a sculpture with similar features was given by Polynesian islanders to the London Missionary Society to mark their conversion to Christianity. Following this, it was brought back to England to be displayed, first in the museum of the LMS and then in the British Museum. The figure of A'a is famous as one of the finest surviving pieces of Polynesian sculpture,

A'a itself, though part of a corpus of Polynesian god-figures with features such as the smaller figures on the body, large head, and rounded stomach, is recognized by experts as a unique figure in Polynesian art. A god figure from Rarotonga, also in the collection of the British Museum, has three male humanoid figures carved in high relief on its torso, similar to those which cover A'a.

Anthropologist Anne Lavondès suggests that "A'a" was a general term for this type of god-figure, rather than the specific name of the god itself while Dr. Niel Gunson, who specializes in Pacific history, identifies A'a with the father god Avatea.(Wikipedia)

34"H x 8.5"W x 8"D

Private collection.

Good condition with evidence of handling and age. Some areas of filling/wood repair, most notable on the front edge of the beard.

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