30
keywordPath%3DGXUQ
Woodwork
Canoe Prow
Sero artist, (active )
Sero artist
Papua New Guinea
54 x 10 x 14 1/2 in. (137.2 x 25.4 x 36.8 cm)
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.
.
Wood
Wood
Sero; made in Iniyok Village, Lower May River Region, New Guinea
ca. 1944
1939
1949
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Woodwork
1976.67
item
Memorial Art Gallery
11/27/2000
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
76.67DI2
digital image
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/76.67_A1.jpg
76.67DI#2
digital image
side view
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/76.67_A2.jpg
76.67DI#3
digital image
Three-quarter
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/76.67_A3.jpg
Bilum Bag
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
34 x 27 1/2 x 1 in. (86.4 x 69.9 x 2.5 cm)
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Raffia
Raffia
1973
1973
1973
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
SC76.3
item
Memorial Art Gallery
2/3/2001
SC76.3DI#2
digital image
8/20/2018
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/SC76.3_A1.jpg
T556DI#1
digital image
full
5/17/2006
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/Inventory pictures/T556_I1.jpg
Painting
Ponderosa Pines - D.H. Lawrence Ranch
Stephen John Hill, (1955 - 1989)
Hill, Stephen John
Australia
1955 - 1989
Male
50 x 38 in. (127 x 96.5 cm)
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.
.
Oil stick
Oil stick
1987
1987
1987
Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Painting
1991.108
item
Memorial Art Gallery
2/27/2001
91.108DI#1
digital image
3/9/2012
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/Inventory pictures/91.108_I1.jpg
Sculpture
Face Mask
New Caledonian artist, (active )
New Caledonian artist
New Caledonia
15 1/4 x 6 3/4 x 3 1/4 in. (38.7 x 17.1 x 8.3 cm)
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.
.
Wood
Wood
0
0
1900-2000, masks (sculpture), Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
1949.92
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
49.92SL1
slide
full frontal
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
49.92DI1
digital image
full frontal
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/49.92_A1.jpg
49.92DI#2
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/49.92_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Hook Figure (Yipwon)
Arambak artist, (active )
Arambak artist
Papua New Guinea
85 in. (215.9 cm)
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.
.
Wood
Wood
Arambak; made in Papua New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands), religious & ritual objects, sculpture
Sculpture
This hook figure, or yipwon, is a 20th century reproduction of old, powerful figures believed to guide and assist tribes in hunting and warfare. The hooks represent ribs which surround the central element of the heart. The large yipwon were kept in the sacred space of the Men’s House where it acted as a vessel to house primordial ancestral spirits. These spirits were called into the yipwon prior to battle by a senior man who activated the figure by rubbing it with powerful substances. If the battle was a success, returning warriors smeared it with the blood of their victims. Particularly effective yipwon were handed down for generations.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1970.82
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
70.82SL1
slide
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
full
1 x 5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
full
4 x 5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
full
8 x 10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
70.82DI1
digital image
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/70.82_A1.jpg
70.82DI#2
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/70.82_A2.jpg
Woodwork
Ladle
Murik artist, (active )
Murik artist
Papua New Guinea
24 1/2 x 5 1/2 x 5 1/2 in. (62.2 x 14 x 14 cm)
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.
Wood
Wood
Murik; made in Murik Lakes Region, New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Woodwork
1972.44
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
72.44DI#1
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/72.44_A1.jpg
Basketry
Body Mask
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
96 in. (243.8 cm)
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.
.
Cane
Cane
Papua New Guinean; made in Kararua District, Middle Sepik River Region
0
0
1900-2000, masks (sculpture), Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Basketry
In earlier times, masks like this one were used in traditional initiation ceremonies in which young boys became men. Skulls of ancestors sometimes adorned the masks to reinforce their role as benevolent ancestral spirits. The dancer would have looked out of the eyes of the lower face and treated as handles the holes hidden below the small patches of grass.
As it was created in the 20th century, we know this body mask was made by artists specifically for sale. Even as social changes affect a culture, the traditional arts of a people can become representations of ethnic identity and potent symbols of familiar values and vaunted ideals of an earlier time. This mask was made by people living on the Sepik River, the major trade and communications artery of Papua New Guinea. Today, it is on the Sepik that most westerners experience Papua New Guinea as cruise lines travel up and down the river, stopping at villages where local artists sell their work.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1973.138
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
73.138SL1
slide
3/4 View
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
full
8 x 10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
full
4 x 5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
73.138SL2
slide
full frontal
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
73.138DI1
digital image
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/73.138_A1.jpg
73.138DI2
digital image
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/73.138_A2.jpg
73.138DI3
digital image
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/73.138_A3.jpg
73.138DI#4
digital image
Three-quarter
3/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/73.138_A4.jpg
Sculpture
Gable Mask
Iatmul artist, (active )
Iatmul artist
Papua New Guinea
14 3/4 x 7 11/16 x 4 1/2 in. (37.5 x 19.5 x 11.5 cm)
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.
.
overall
overall
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.
.
with mount
overall
Wood
Wood
Iatmul; made in Middle Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands), sculpture
Sculpture
The spiritual lives of Melanesian communities are dominated by Men’s Societies. The ceremonial Men’s House is the sacred dwelling place of the clan spirits, treasures, and of initiated men. Gable masks like this adorned the façades of Men’s Houses. Similar to gargoyles in medieval churches, these figures were meant to ward off troublesome spirits that can cause illness and spread mischief. Gable masks embodied powerful female, ancestral spirits.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1973.139
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
73.139SL1
slide
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
73.139DI1
digital image
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/73.139_A1.jpg
73.139DI#2
digital image
6/17/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/73.139_A2.jpg
73.139DI#3
digital image
1/13/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/73.139_A3.jpg
73.139TR1
transparency
Front
4 x 5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
Arms and Armor
Dagger
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
11 3/4 x 2 x 1 3/4 in. (29.8 x 5.1 x 4.4 cm)
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.
.
Bone
Bone
Papua New Guinean; made in the Middle Sepik River Region
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Arms and Armor
1974.75
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
74.75DI#1
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.75_A1.jpg
Sculpture
Orator's Chair
Iatmul artist, (active )
Iatmul artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
44 1/2 x 18 1/2 x 20 in. (113 x 47 x 50.8 cm)
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.
.
Wood
Wood
Iatmul; made in Suapmeri Village, Middle Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea
0
0
chairs, Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
Orator's stools were not actually designed to be sat upon. Rather, they held a central place within the Men's House, serving as a lectern during debates. Taking turns, members of a clan would attempt to upstage each other with their eloquence, theatrics and knowledge of genealogical lineages. A speaker would stand or sit next to the stool, carrying a bundle of leaves. At key points in his speak, he would place a leaf on the stool or strike the stool with the bundle to invoke the ancestor represented on the stool.
This particular example is from the village of Suapmeri, of the Iatmul peoples in the Middle Sepik River Region of New Guinea. Typical of the area are the four black circles on the whitened face, the treatment of the eyes, and the catfish headdress, and the squat muscular figure with its scars. Around the periphery of the face runs a fiber band for the attachment of fern leaves. On either side of the central figure, which is male, are two small female figures in bridal veils.
[Gallery label text]
1974.71
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
74.71SL1
slide
front view
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
74.71SL2
slide
detail
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
74.71DI1
digital image
front view
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.71_A1.jpg
74.71DI#2
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.71_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Figure (Mindja)
Waresi artist, (active )
Waresi artist
Papua New Guinea
41 3/4 x 9 13/16 x 4 5/16 in. (106 x 25 x 11 cm)
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.
overall
overall
Wood
Wood
Waresi; made in Upper Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
The cultivation of yams was central to the lives of the Waresi people; they served as both a ceremonial and staple food. The spirits responsible for their growth (and by extension for the welfare of the community) needed to be properly honored upon the harvest. During the mindja-ma ceremony a basket containing yams was adorned with two of these figures. Mindja were considered to be powerful male water spirits who lived, and were sometimes visible, just below the surface in lakes. This powerful otherworldly being embodies the qualities of humans, plants and animals. The simplified eyes, nose and mouth are based on the human face. The painted diamond shapes symbolize banana leaves, and the projecting triangles that run down the bottom half of the figure represent an undulating snake.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1974.76
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
74.76DI#1
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.76_A1.jpg
Woodwork
Sago Food Bowl
Irian Jayan artist, (active )
Irian Jayan artist
West Papua
13 1/2 x 14 x 2 1/4 in. (34.3 x 35.6 x 5.7 cm)
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.
.
Wood
Wood
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Woodwork
1974.77
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
74.77DI#1
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.77_A1.jpg
74.77DI#2
digital image
1/13/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.77_A2.jpg
74.77TR1
transparency
Front
4 x 5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
Sculpture
Yam Mask
Abelam artist, (active )
Abelam artist
Papua New Guinea
11 3/4 x 12 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. (29.8 x 31.1 x 5.7 cm)
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.
.
Grasses
Grasses
Abelam; Made in Maprik Region, Papua New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
Abelam yam masks were never worn by humans. They are so small because they were made to adorn the long yams grown by the Abelam people of Papua New Guinea. These long yams, which were not eaten, grow up to 6-9 feet and were exchanged between men as a form of community building. An Abelam man’s prestige was measured in direct proportion to the size of his yams. Special long yams with anthropomorphic features were considered living supernatural beings and were lavishly decorated with paint, feathers, shells, leaves, and masks, and then publicly displayed. The interlacing between solid bands refers to the caterpillar found on yam vines.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1974.78
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
74.78DI#2
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.78_A1.jpg
74.78DI#2
digital image
Front
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/74.78_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Mask (Mai)
Iatmul artist, (active )
Iatmul artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
29 x 6 1/2 x 5 1/2 in. (73.7 x 16.5 x 14 cm)
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.
.
Wood
Wood
Iatmul; made in Middle Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
This mask was made in the mid-20th century by an Iatmul artist after the traditional mai masks danced by young initiated men and boys. Mai masks were not worn directly over a dancer’s face, rather they were attached to a large basketry piece that fit over his head and upper body. To this piece were attached brightly colored flowers, feather and leaves that disguised the human form below. Hidden below the costume the dancer sang in falsetto through a bamboo tube which helped to further transform his voice and presence. Four masks were danced together in two pairs, one as a pair of brothers and one as a pair of sisters. While the performances were public affairs, much of the preparation before and activities during were veiled in secrecy.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1977.158
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
77.158DI#1
digital image
10/7/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/Inventory pictures/77.158_I1.jpg
77.158DI#2
digital image
7/28/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/77.158_A1.jpg
Musical Instrument
Slit Gong
Kayan-Borbor artist, (active )
Kayan-Borbor artist
Papua New Guinea
16 x 81 1/2 x 14 in. (40.6 x 207 x 35.6 cm)
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.
.
Wood
Wood
Kayan-Borbor; made in Ramu River Region, Papua New Guinea
ca. 1940
1935
1945
1900-2000, musical instruments, Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Musical Instrument
The spiritual lives of Melanesian communities are dominated by Men’s Societies. The ceremonial Men’s House is the sacred dwelling place of the clan spirits, treasures, and of initiated men. Traditionally, slit-gong drums were located at the center of the Men’s House and functioned as musical instruments as well as a means of long-distance communication. A range of tones and sounds could be produced depending on the style of the beating stick and the varying thickness of the sides of the drum. In parts of New Guinea, the sounds produced by slit-gong drums were believed to be the voices of supernatural beings. Hollowed from a massive single tree, the sides of this drum are carved with a mix of butterfly, frog and fish motifs that are so stylized they can be difficult to discern.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1979.19
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
1x1.5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
8 x 10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
79.19DI1
digital image
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/79.19_A1.jpg
79.19SL1
slide
full
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
79.19DI#3
digital image
front
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/79.19_A3.jpg
79.19DI#2
digital image
Three-quarter
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/79.19_A2.jpg
Decorative Arts
Shield
Anggoram artist, (active )
Anggoram artist
Papua New Guinea
67 13/16 x 13 3/4 x 4 5/16 in. (172.2 x 35 x 11 cm)
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.
.
overall
overall
.
.
.
overall
overall
Wood
Wood
Anggoram; made in Lower Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Decorative Arts
1986.119
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
86.119SL1
slide
full
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
86.119SL2
slide
detail
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
86.119DI1
slide
full
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/86.119_A1.jpg
86.119DI#2
digital image
6/18/2008
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/86.119_A2.jpg
86.119DI#3
digital image
Verso
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/86.119_A3.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
48 7/16 x 9 11/16 in. (123 x 24.6 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
1987.80
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.80DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.80_A1.jpg
87.80DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.80_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
44 3/8 x 9 1/2 in. (112.7 x 24.1 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
Papua New Guinea; made in Gulf Province, Era River Region
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
Traditionally, spirit or gope boards were considered dwelling places for individual spirits. Each spirit was linked to specific parts of the land, river or sea associated with the clan. They were kept in each clan’s cubicle within the larger Men’s House along with other items such as human and animal skulls meant to honor various spirits within their clan.
The boards' highly stylized imagery is believed to represent the way the spirit looks. While the imagery reflects certain consistencies within clans, their varied style and appearance reflects individual artists’ representations of individual spirits. Despite differences, every board has a face and a navel. The navel was particularly important because it served as the access point through which the spirit entered the board.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1987.79
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.79DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.79_A1.jpg
87.79DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.79_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
New Guinean artist, (active )
New Guinean artist
New Guinea
Primary
47 1/4 x 6 1/8 in. (120 x 15.6 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
1987.81
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.81DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.81_A1.jpg
87.81DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.81_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
47 1/2 x 7 5/8 in. (120.7 x 19.4 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
Papua New Guinea; made in Gulf Province, Era River Region
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
Traditionally, spirit or gope boards were considered dwelling places for individual spirits. Each spirit was linked to specific parts of the land, river or sea associated with the clan. They were kept in each clan’s cubicle within the larger Men’s House along with other items such as human and animal skulls meant to honor various spirits within their clan.
The boards' highly stylized imagery is believed to represent the way the spirit looks. While the imagery reflects certain consistencies within clans, their varied style and appearance reflects individual artists’ representations of individual spirits. Despite differences, every board has a face and a navel. The navel was particularly important because it served as the access point through which the spirit entered the board.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1987.82
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.82DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.82_A1.jpg
87.82DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.82_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
New Guinean artist, (active )
New Guinean artist
New Guinea
Primary
42 x 10 3/8 in. (106.7 x 26.4 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
1987.83
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.83DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.83_A1.jpg
87.83DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.83_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
54 x 12 3/4 in. (137.2 x 32.4 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
Papua New Guinea; made in Gulf Province, Era River Region
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands), religious & ritual objects, sculpture
Sculpture
Traditionally, spirit or gope boards were considered dwelling places for individual spirits. Each spirit was linked to specific parts of the land, river or sea associated with the clan. They were kept in each clan’s cubicle within the larger Men’s House along with other items such as human and animal skulls meant to honor various spirits within their clan.
The boards' highly stylized imagery is believed to represent the way the spirit looks. While the imagery reflects certain consistencies within clans, their varied style and appearance reflects individual artists’ representations of individual spirits. Despite differences, every board has a face and a navel. The navel was particularly important because it served as the access point through which the spirit entered the board.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1987.84
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
87.84SL1
slide
full
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
8 x 10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4 x 5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.84DI1
digital image
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.84_A1.jpg
87.84DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.84_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
New Guinean artist, (active )
New Guinean artist
New Guinea
Primary
44 7/8 x 12 1/2 in. (114 x 31.8 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
1987.85
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.85DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.85_A1.jpg
87.85DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.85_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
New Guinean artist, (active )
New Guinean artist
New Guinea
Primary
57 3/4 x 13 1/2 in. (146.7 x 34.3 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
1987.86
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.86DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.86_A1.jpg
87.86DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.86_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Spirit Board (Gope)
New Guinean artist, (active )
New Guinean artist
New Guinea
Primary
69 3/4 x 11 1/2 in. (177.2 x 29.2 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
1950-1987
1950
1987
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
1987.87
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
4x5
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
87.87DI#1
digital image
2/24/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.87_A1.jpg
87.87DI#2
digital image
6/10/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/87.87_A2.jpg
Sculpture
Mask
Mindimbit artist, (active )
Mindimbit artist
Papua New Guinea
45 9/16 x 10 5/8 x 9 7/16 in. (115.7 x 27 x 24 cm)
.
.
.
Raffia
Raffia
Mindimbit; made in Middle Sepik River Region, Papua New Guinea
ca. 1950
1945
1955
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Sculpture
Today, the country of Papua New Guinea is largely Christian. Masks remain a part of its culture as vestiges of earlier animist and ancestor worship religions. Although the modern versions are made to be sold to western tourists, the artists use the same centuries-old materials and techniques of the traditional forms. This mask contains an interior armature to rest on the wearer’s shoulders. Thatches of red grass on either side obscure hand holes to allow the wearer to manipulate the mask without detection. Its pristine condition exposes the mask’s function as an aesthetic object made for sale, rather than a ritual one made for use.
[Label text from It Came From the Vault exhibition, 2013]
1992.27
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
92.27DI#1
digital image
3/13/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/Inventory pictures/92.27_I1.jpg
92.27DI#2
digital image
3/4/2013
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/92.27_A1.jpg
Woodwork
Ceremonial Canoe Paddle
Austral Islands artist, (active )
Austral Islands artist
Austral Islands
41 1/4 x 9 in. (104.8 x 22.9 cm)
.
.
.
Wood
Wood
0
0
1800-1900, 1900-2000, canoe paddles, Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands), sculpture
Woodwork
Based on the size and intricately carved surface it is unlikely that this was ever used as a canoe paddle. Although knowledge of their original function is lost, it is believed that paddles like this may have been used to accentuate a dancer’s movements during ritual performances. By the late 19th century Austral artists recognized Westerners’ interest in the paddles fine carving and craftsmanship and began making them for the market.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1953.31
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
53.31SL1
slide
full
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
negative
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
8x10
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
glossy
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
53.31DI1
digital image
full
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/53.31_A1.jpg
53.31DI#2
digital image
7/28/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/53.31_A2.jpg
Woodwork
Ceremonial War Club (Moungalaulau)
Tongan artist, (active )
Tongan artist
Tonga
44 7/8 x 3 3/8 x 1 5/8 in. (114 x 8.6 x 4.2 cm)
.
.
.
overall
overall
Wood
Wood
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Woodwork
Tongan warriors were so skilled that they often served as mercenaries in the nearby islands of Fiji and Samoa. Heavy war clubs like this one were their preferred weapons. The dense, hard ironwood from which it was carved could deliver a powerful blow without cracking. Tongan artists covered the surfaces of these weapons with fine carvings of crosshatch, zigzag and herringbone patterns occasionally broken by small human figures or crescent shapes.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1961.15
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
61.15LS1
slide
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Graphics/blank.gif
61.15DI1
digital image
2 x 2
00/00/00
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/61.15_A1.jpg
61.15DI#2
digital image
7/28/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/61.15_A2.jpg
Woodwork
Stilt Step
Marquesan artist
Marquesan artist
French Polynesia
Primary
12 1/2 x 2 3/4 x 3 3/4 in. (31.8 x 7 x 9.6 cm)
.
.
.
overall
overall
.
.
.
with mount
overall
Wood
Wood
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands)
Woodwork
Stilt steps such as this one were footrests for stilt walkers. They were lashed about two or three feet from the bottom of tall poles. Marquesan men performed on stilts for entertainment and ritual occasions. Accomplished stilt-walkers could perform somersaults and other acrobatics. Audiences placed wagers on races, mock battles and other competitions between opponents. The stocky figure is in the form of Tiki, known generally throughout Polynesia as the wise and potent creator of the human race. Shallow, carved lines recall the tattoos that beautify the bodies of Marquesan women and men.
[Gallery label text, 2009]
1967.38
item
Memorial Art Gallery
3/20/2001
67.38DI#1
digital image
Three-quarter
5/12/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/67.38_A1.jpg
67.38DI#2
digital image
Side
5/12/2009
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/67.38_A2.jpg
Textiles
Tapa Cloth
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinean artist
Papua New Guinea
Primary
42 1/4 x 22 in. (107.3 x 55.9 cm)
.
.
.
Bark
Bark
0
0
Oceanic, Oceanic art (Pacific Islands), textiles
Textiles
1954.30
item
Memorial Art Gallery
5/29/2001
54.30DI#1
digital image
8/20/2018
http://127.0.0.1:5000/Media/images/54.30_A1.jpg