Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino

Chile before Chile


The artistic genius of Juan Tepano

This human figure is made of miro pupu (acacia) wood and was sculpted by Juan Tepano Huki (1866–1947) in the early 20th century. Tepano was a master sculptor who made unique creations that he called maru-uru (masks). His work marked a renaissance in Rapa Nui art. Well educated and highly respected by his people, Tepano also became a leading political figure. In 1902, the Government of Chile appointed him Chief and Administrator of Laws of the island territory.