Grade Society Figure with Lizard

Artist Unknown

Datecirca 1920–1940

MediumFernwood

DimensionsH. 127 5/8 in. (324.2 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Mr. Jeremy Merrin

Object number84.7

On View

Not on view

Label Text
Men in Vanuatu (formerly the New Hebrides) advanced in their society through a series of "grades," which were measured by age and the accumulation of wealth. At each stage, a man was required to host a feast for members of his new and old grades and to commission the ritual paraphernalia used during the ceremonies. Among these ritual objects were fernwood figures, which were thought to provide abodes for ancestral spirits. The face of this ghostlike figure was originally painted; traces of paint remain around the eyes. The relief carving of a lizard may have represented the guardian spirit of the individual for whom the carving was made.ProvenanceReportedly collected by George W. Staempfli (1910–1999), New York, 1966; with Staempfli Gallery, New York; sold to Edward Merrin, Inc., New York, 1983; to Jeremy Merrin (son of Edward Merrin), New York; given to NCMA, 1984.
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