Description
Intricate surface patterning characterizes Maori wood carvings. The swirls and spirals covering the face on this canoe prow replicate traditional facial tattoo patterns. Similar designs were used for post and gable figures that adorned both dwellings and compounds.
Provenance
Harry Beasley; Harry Beasley
Accession Number
1967.231
Medium
wood with haliotis (pearl) shell inlay
Dimensions
Overall: 35.3 cm (13 7/8 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Credit Line
The Mary Spedding Milliken Memorial Collection, Gift of William Mathewson Milliken
