The face, torso and thighs of this tall figure provide the artist with a series of surfaces on which to imbue meaning. Its expressive ‘painted-up’ face and shoulders sit above its beautifully decorated chest featuring clan designs specific to the affiliations of the unknown maker. Yam-like designs on its thighs suggest its classification as guardian Mokuy, entrusted to provide sustenance to more significant Mokuy that embody the spirits of the deceased. Rare for Mokuy figures, this example features tiny feet and delicately
carved fingers.