.jpg?w=1)
A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands
Details
R. Schmidt (early 20th Century)
A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands
signed and dated 'R.SCHMIDT 1917' (lower left) with inscription 'A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands at the launching of a new war canoe in New Georgia two virgins are taken from the tribe, one is publicly sacrificed, and the other kept in seclusion from 4 to 5 years. During this time an old woman acts as guard over her. Should she break the tabu she is put to death. The skulls on the sticks are a sign to all that if they molest her their heads will be stuck up in the same way. The object in the back-ground is a skull box. The large necklace is of dogs teeth.' on a paper label attached to the reverse
oil on board
unframed
16 3/8 x 12in. (41.7 x 30.5cm.)
A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands
signed and dated 'R.SCHMIDT 1917' (lower left) with inscription 'A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands at the launching of a new war canoe in New Georgia two virgins are taken from the tribe, one is publicly sacrificed, and the other kept in seclusion from 4 to 5 years. During this time an old woman acts as guard over her. Should she break the tabu she is put to death. The skulls on the sticks are a sign to all that if they molest her their heads will be stuck up in the same way. The object in the back-ground is a skull box. The large necklace is of dogs teeth.' on a paper label attached to the reverse
oil on board
unframed
16 3/8 x 12in. (41.7 x 30.5cm.)
Special notice
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 15% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.