A RECENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL DIG HAS LEFT EXPERTS STUNNED
The Moai are the prominent statues of Easter Island off the coast of Chile, South America and are well known around the globe. But many are unaware that the statues are not only heads placed around the island, but full bodied gigantic statues, buried beneath the ground, on stone mounts. It is only recently though, that archaeologists have discovered something unique about these bodies. During a dig, they uncovered some of the monoliths and were surprised to see that they were covered in ancient carved tattoos, unlike any they had seen before.
Some time ago, many of the statues were uncovered by archaeologists and moved to stone platforms called Ahu, surrounding the island’s perimeter. Despite this, many still believe that the statues themselves are merely heads, a common misconception.
The statues were carved out of rock faces by the ancient Polynesian Rapa Nui people between the years 1250 and 1500 CE. An astonishing 887 statues were created in total. The heaviest to be unearthed to date is a short, wide statue, weighing 87 tons and the tallest, known as Paro, is nearly 10 metres high (33ft) and weighs 82 tons! A gigantic, unfinished statue was also found. If this statue was finished it would have measured 21 metres (69ft) tall and weigh in at a whopping 270 tons!
It is widely thought by archaeologists, that the statues were buried by nature and not deliberately by human hand as most perceive. The Rapa Nui were experts in maneuvering these hefty sculptures. Upon each one, there are visible post holes and rope guides which were cleverly used in a rope pull technique to transport and mount them once they were carved, onto rock bases.
#1 Best Overall
- Small size: Each Easter Island statue measures 2.5 inches
- Resin moai decor: The stone statues are crafted from robust resin,ensuring long-lasting and detailed craftsmanship
- Unique design: Inspired by the original work of Easter Island in 380 AD, the Moai carries ancient mythology and rich history, and is carefully crafted with realistic breakage effects
- Ideal souvenir: moai statue is a precious desktop decoration You can give it as a unique gift to friends or family who appreciate culture, art, or history, showcasing your thoughtfulness and taste
- Suitable for various occasions: Easter Island statues are suitable for use in home decor, tabletop and photographic props to add a unique artistic atmosphere and personalized style
Image Credit – Fernando G.Baptista/National Geogrphic
Now archaeologists are working hard to decipher the ancient tattoos, which academics say represent the canoes of the Polynesians who made them. It’s another fascinating discovery to add to the list of the mysterious culture of one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth.
Rank #2
- Natural texture and appearance – the Emsco Group Easter Island head statue has a natural texture that resembles Real stone, making it a perfect garden accent. If you feel like adding a touch of unique style to your household, This conversational statuary piece will work perfect in any lawn, garden, or household.
- DURABLE RESIN CONSTRUCTION – This particular statue is manufactured from a durable resin to replicate a stone statue at a lower price. It may be lightweight, but it’s extremely durable. Even after installation, the statue can be filled with gravel or sand to add weight and stability. Its sturdiness ensures its stability in any environment, even in severe weather conditions.
- Lightweight – This statue is made of a type of resin that's well known for its durability and lightweight properties. Instead of a heavy, expensive concrete statue, This statue can be effortlessly carried and installed in seconds – no more back breaking work and lifting!
- Enhances any landscape project – one way to enhance landscapes and exteriors is to decorate them. It’s not just the beautiful plants and stones that make up a good landscape – statues are also great exterior decorations. The statue comes in two different designs: sand or Granite. Either of the two colors would be a striking addition to any garden, patio, or landscape project.
- Various products and Designs – Emsco Group offers a complete statuary line with many options of figurines and sculptures. It isn’t hard to find a design to fit the individuality of any home or commercial property. Aside from its statues, Emsco Group has a wide range of products, including sports equipment, snow tools, gardening tools, children’s products, Christmas tree stands, and cleaning aids.
“There exists in the midst of the great ocean, in a region where nobody goes, a mysterious and isolated island. The island is planted with monstrous great statues, the work of I don’t know what race, today degenerate or vanished; its great remains an enigma.”
19th-century French seafarer and artist Pierre Loti.
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Rank #3
- Know the Size Before It Arrives: Approximately 6.3 in H x 2.6 in W x 1.7 in D and 360 g. This large Moai statue is clearly sized for desktop and shelf display, giving it noticeable presence without requiring the space of a full-size garden statue
- Solid Construction with a Stable Base: Made from solid resin and stone, the 360 g Easter Island head statue feels substantial for its compact size. Its flat base sits steadily on a desk, bookshelf, table, or office shelf, addressing the lightweight feel common to many decorative figurines
- Realistic Gray Texture with Visible Detail: A textured gray finish, speckled surface, darker recessed shading, stoic facial expression, and full-body silhouette create an aged-stone appearance. The actual resin and stone construction remains clearly disclosed so buyers know what they are receiving
- Designed for Men's Office and Desk Decor: The restrained gray palette works naturally with men's office decor, desk decor for men, masculine office decor, home office decor, study rooms, bookshelves, and coffee tables. It adds mystery and personality without introducing bright colors or visual clutter
- A Distinctive Gift and Conversation Piece: Give the large Moai sculpture to a collector, coworker, father, husband, history enthusiast, or home decor lover for a birthday, housewarming, holiday, or office occasion. It also works as a personal desk statue for creating a more individual workspace
You can discover more about Easter Island and the ongoing archaeological dig at the Easter Island Statue Project.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Compact Size with Clear Measurements: Approximately 2.8 in H x 1.1 in W x 0.9 in D and 89 g. This small Moai statue fits narrow shelves, compact desks, cubicles, and window sills while giving buyers exact dimensions before purchase to avoid size surprises
- Solid Feel in a Small Footprint: Made from solid resin and stone, the 89 g figurine has a more substantial feel than its miniature footprint suggests. The flat base helps it remain stable on level shelves, desks, bedside tables, and other compact display surfaces
- Made for Small Shelf Decor: Use it with small figurines for a shelf, small sculpture decor, small statues decor for shelves, knick knacks, books, plants, or collectibles. Its narrow footprint adds a distinctive detail without using the space required by a larger decorative object
- Ideal for Cubicles and Small Workspaces: The compact Moai figure works naturally as cubicle decor, desk decor, window sill decor, or a small home office accent. Its textured gray finish adds mystery and personality to a workspace without creating visual clutter
- Small Gift with Distinctive Character: A memorable gift choice for coworkers, collectors, history enthusiasts, desk decor fans, fathers, husbands, or anyone who enjoys unusual miniature decor. Suitable for birthdays, holidays, office gifting, or as a small addition to an existing Moai collection
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