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Figure

Arts of the Pacific Islands

MEDIUM Wood, shell, fiber
DATES 20th century
DIMENSIONS 14 x 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. (35.6 x 5.7 x 5.7 cm)  (show scale)
ACCESSION NUMBER 1989.51.42
CREDIT LINE The Adolph and Esther D. Gottlieb Collection
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION Ramu River wood male figure, with one pierced shell attached with fiber to each upper arm. Dull brown patina. Oval face with deeply incised grooves of concentric ovals depicting eyes; slight vertical ridge on forehead extends down to probiscis-like nose. Ears indicated by small rectangles pierced with two holes protruding from each side of head. Head surmounted with reptile-like creature with its head extending toward forehead and tail extending down back of head. Spirals incised on each shoulder blade; raised wood circles along collar bone continuing down thin cylindrical arms. Hands rest on sides of thighs, with incised lines indicating fingers. Protruding buttocks, flattened at back; male genitalia depicted. Slightly bent legs with center ridge extending entire length. Blockish oval shaped feet with incised lines depicting short toes. Condition: Some patina worn away
MUSEUM LOCATION This item is not on view
CAPTION Figure, 20th century. Wood, shell, fiber, 14 x 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. (35.6 x 5.7 x 5.7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, The Adolph and Esther D. Gottlieb Collection, 1989.51.42. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 1989.51.42.jpg)
IMAGE overall, 1989.51.42.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph
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RIGHTS STATEMENT Creative Commons-BY
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 <em>Figure</em>, 20th century. Wood, shell, fiber, 14 x 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. (35.6 x 5.7 x 5.7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, The Adolph and Esther D. Gottlieb Collection, 1989.51.42. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 1989.51.42.jpg)