These motives, four of which are included in the exhibition at Kew, bring to mind native American totem poles - an association acknowledged by Moore himself and endorsed by many scholars. Others have made links with the Crucifixion, particularly in the case of Upright Motives No.1 and 8. But speaking of Upright Motive No.8 Moore later referred to a more primitive influence, that of a Jamaican wood carving of a bird man, seen by him in the British Museum.
Assistant Curator, The Henry Moore Foundation
Did Moore sculpt this?? If so, is he a New Zealander?? Because it looks as though he has used Maori totem carving techniques and combined that with modern contemporary art. I think this is fantastic!!