Aim for FiveArt History

Short essay: contextual analysis

Contextual analysis: moai on Rapa Nui

  • Unit 9
  • 5 points
  • About 15 minutes

You describe a required work (image provided) and its context, such as its setting, function or patron, then explain how that context shaped the artist’s choices or the work’s meaning. Some years you also explain how scholars have interpreted it. On the exam: Section II, question 4 of 6: a short essay on a work from the image set (image provided), with a suggested 15 minutes.

The question and its sources

Short essay: contextual analysis. Suggested time: 15 minutes. Answer each part in complete sentences. The work described is Moai on platform (ahu), Rapa Nui (Easter Island), c. 1100–1600 CE, volcanic tuff figures on basalt base.

The work, described in words

A row of huge stone figures stands side by side on a long, low platform of fitted stone near the shore, with their backs to the sea.

Most moai are about 4 meters (13 feet) tall, and some are much larger. The heads are very large compared with the bodies.

Each face has a heavy brow, deep eye sockets, a long nose, thin pressed lips, a strong chin and long ears.

The bodies end at about the hips. Arms are carved in shallow relief along the sides, with long fingers meeting over the stomach.

Some moai on the island wear large cylindrical topknots (pukao) of red stone, and a few have had inset eyes of white coral restored.

Source: Description written for this practice question. On the exam you would see color images of the work instead.

Suggested time: 15 minutes

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Part (a)

1 point

Describe one visual characteristic of the moai.

0 / 2,500 characters

Part (b)

1 point

Describe the setting of the moai.

0 / 2,500 characters

Part (c)

1 point

Using specific visual and/or contextual evidence, explain how the moai's function influenced their appearance or placement.

0 / 2,500 characters

Part (d)

1 point

Using specific visual and/or contextual evidence, explain how the materials or environment of Rapa Nui influenced the making of the moai.

0 / 2,500 characters

Part (e)

1 point

Using specific visual or contextual evidence, explain one way interpretations of the moai or of Rapa Nui's history have changed or been debated.

0 / 2,500 characters

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