Institute for Biodiversity Science and Sustainability

CAS Anthropology Collections Database


Catalog Number CAS 0545-0016   CAS 0545-0016; Mortuary pole (model)
Category Carvings; Ceremonial Items
Object Name Mortuary pole (model)
Culture Australian Aborigine, Tiwi Tribe
Global Region Australia
Country Australia
State/Prov./Dist. Northern Territory
County
Other Geographic Data Melville Island
Maker's Name Leo Parbuungu
Date of Manufacture ca. 1976
Collection Name N/A
Materials Wood: Ironwood; Earth pigments
Description Cylindrical mortuary pole carved from single piece of wood; Carving includes image of human face with large nose; Segments of pole are painted in geometric patterns (solid colors or stippled designs) in colors of white, black, ochre, and yellow-gold; Base of pole is undecorated and designed for placement in the ground. NB: This piece was commissioned for an exhibition “Art of the First Australians” organized by the Aboriginal Arts Board of the Australian Council to commemorate the bicentennial of the United States. After the exhibit concluded its US tour, pieces were given to participating museums.
Dimensions (cm) Width = 10.2, Depth = ca. 10.5, Length = 117.5