The Pacific, 700–1980 ce

Ceremonial clothing and gift wrap

Boat sails

Fishing nets

Cooking utensils

Illustrating technological evolution within wood carving practices across different oceanic cultures.

Highlighting unique religious symbols common amongst Oceanic societies despite geographic disparity.

Exploring economic impact of trade networks based upon artifactual exchanges between distinct island groups.

Demonstrating various representational strategies deployed by indigenous groups under foreign domination post-contact period.

Bronze

Wood

Terracotta

Marble

Abstract

Geometric

Spiral

Floral

The figures' large eyes emphasize the importance of foresight during periods of environmental uncertainty.

Their construction demonstrates early experimentation with surrealism long before its recognition in global art history narratives.

Moai serve primarily as navigational aids for ocean-going canoes due to their size and visibility from afar.

As ancestral figures, they solidify lineage claims and communal memory through their imposing presence and placement.

Tibetan monks

Indigenous Australian artists

Renaissance European painters

Navajo artists

To honor deceased relatives and solicit avenging spirits against enemies.

As functional supports in house construction due to their sturdy build.

To indicate territories belonging to different clans within the society.

To serve as chronological records of lineage akin to genealogical trees.

By focusing solely on the aesthetic qualities rather than practical uses.

By comparing the geographical origins within the Pacific region.

By highlighting their distinct cultural functions despite similar materials used.

By showing chronological development from ancient to modern times.

Loss of agricultural resources due to climate change.

Widespread tribal conflict exacerbated by European-introduced firearms.

Decreased emphasis on ancestral heritage in divorce of Christian belief.

Desire for economic integration with neighboring Australian colonies.

Nan Madol uses intricate gold leaf which contrasts with Angkor's stone-only technique.

Nan Madol features minimalistic basalt pillars while Angkor Wat has elaborate relief sculptures telling Hindu epics.

Angkor Wat carvings display geometric patterns not seen in Nan Madol's organic shapes.

Carvings at Nan Madol lack religious significance unlike those at Angkor Wat.