Kanak. <em>Roof Finial (Gomoa)</em>, 19th century. Wood, pigment, 30 x 5 1/2 x 2 3/4 in. (76.2 x 14 x 7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Milton F. Rosenthal, 85.199. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 85.199_bw.jpg)

Roof Finial (Gomoa)

Artist:Kanak

Medium: Wood, pigment

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:19th century

Dimensions: 30 x 5 1/2 x 2 3/4 in. (76.2 x 14 x 7 cm)

Collections:

Accession Number: 85.199

Image: 85.199_bw.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
Somewhat flat and frontally carved object tapering to a point at the bottom. Representation of head with large nose, heavily lidded eyes, and side projections for ears of hair. Tall bipartite superstructure of softly rounded forms. Horizontal band in relief probably represents a beard with a small pendant on each end. Rectangular form in bas-relief below beard. Black and dark red pigment worn off in large patches, exposing yellowish wood. Condition: Considerably weathered, especially along edges and in back. Long, vertical cracks on front, side projections broken off, extensive putting on back. Also, on back, modern brass rind attached and written "7403" and "New Caledonia," Wbstr. July 1889."

Brooklyn Museum