On a “kinetic”-like sequence in rongorongo tablet “Mamari”

Abstract

Abstract The paper addresses the question of “kinetic”-like attributes observed on a choice of glyphs in rongorongo tablet “Mamari” (lines 9–10, side b, text C). This tablet, a medium-sized rongorongo text, as near as I can tell, has been aptly referred to by researchers and commentators as containing mixed genres. “Mamari” also has a unique place in the corpus of Easter Island inscriptions due to its “lunar calendar” fragment. The sequence in Cb9–10 elicits interest since it may shed light on the disputed nature of rongorongo script. A suggested textual parallel on side a of “Mamari” gives ground to cautious discussions on the degree of variation, paraphrasing and economy of expression, as well as to the plausible sound-mapping in the rongorongo orthography. Similarly, it is shown by comparison of earlier tracings of Thomas Barthel and Steven R. Fischer with the photographs of the actual artefact that the accuracy of the published drawn corpus still requires some amendments, and hence all further studies are supposed to pay more attention to the use of photographic material or investigation of the original. These issues are especially crucial for palaeographic and calligraphic research.