The Hawaiian tiki mask is central to Polynesian art. Most tiki mask designs are based on the four major deities in Polynesian culture: Kane, Kanaloa, Ku, and Lono. Because Hawaiians worshipped in their homes as well as in temples, according to Encyclopedia.com carved masks and idols designed to resemble the gods could be found in most public and private places throughout the islands. In fact, although the culture’s religion recognized many gods and demigods, the National Park Service says that it was only the worship of the four main deities that was done publicly. Worship of the lesser gods was considered private business.
