15th Sep, 2026 10:00
Fine Interiors
A Rapa Nui dance paddle or 'rapa'
first half of the 20th century, Easter Island,
carved wood, of figural form, with two blade-shaped lobes
120.3cm long
Footnote:Rapa Nui, commonly known as Easter Island, is a territory of Chile which forms part of Polynesia. Despite only having a population of around 7,000 and an area of approximately 63 square miles, its impact has been significant. The island is of immense archaeological and historical significance, being one of the world's most isolated inhabited islands and home to nearly 1,000 monolithic stone statues known as moai, which are unique to the island. Over half of the island's population identify as Rapa Nui, the island's indigenous population.
A key tenet of the island's indigenous cultural heritage is the rapa, which has been used for generations at ceremonial events such as dances, rituals and processions. Unlike traditional canoe paddles used throughout Polynesia, which were primarily functional objects used for navigation despite sometimes incorporating decorative elements, the rapa is unique in that it was designed solely for performative purposes. Its double-ended design allowed performers to spin and rotate it with ease, supporting symmetrical movements and enhancing the visual rhythm of dance and related performances. They were also used for spiritual ceremonies such as funerals, where they were used to aid sacred and spiritual chanting.
Their skilled craftsmanship, rarity and cultural significance make them highly prized and sought-after artefacts, and this fine example, dating to the first half of the 20th century, represents a well-preserved piece of Rapa Nui's rich cultural history.
Rapas are currently housed in many of the world's leading museums, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City (see inv. 1978.412.1571) and the British Museum, London (see Oc.5849).
Take advantage of our Sworders Delivery Service. Please see 'Shipping estimate' below.
£4,000 - £6,000
Buyer's premium: 32.40% (inclusive of VAT, where applicable)
Condition Report
Fairly good condition overall. With general wear throughout, commensurate with age and use. With various small abrasions, scuffs, checks and varying degrees of discolouration throughout. With one area of restoration to one end, and some light cosmetic attention likely undertaken at the same time. Structurally stable and secure overall.
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Auction: Fine Interiors, 15th Sep, 2026
Viewing
Stansted Viewing | Auction
Viewing will be held at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE, as follows:
Friday 11 September, 10am - 4pm
Sunday 13 September, 10am - 1pm
Monday 14 September, 10am - 4pm
All lots are, however, extensively illustrated and carry detailed condition reports - see 'Condition report' at the foot of each lot description.
The auction will take place at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE.
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