In the Chilean Island of Rapanui (Easter Island), once a year the military and political chief “Tangata Manu” was chosen from amongst the different clans. For this every clan sent a representative to participate in a very difficult test.

The men must descend 120 meter cliff to the ocean with wild waves crashing around them at all times. Once in the water they had to swim turbulent sea to the nearby island Motu Nui, where the Manu Tara bird nested. The first swimmer to retrieve an egg from the nest and deliver it to shore  in perfect condition would be nominated the new “Tangata Manu”.

 

Size : 0.6 x 1.60 mts

Date : 2012