Written by one of the twentieth century's most influential scientists, this volume has been essential reading for art historians and anthropologists since its initial publication in 1927. The definitive analysis of the fundamental traits of primitive art, it covers the formal element in art, representative art, symbolism, style, literature, music, and dance. A 115-page study focuses on the art of North America's North Pacific Coast.
Because of its variety of pictorial matter ? including more than 300 photographs, drawings, and diagrams ? this book represents a valuable resource for artists and designers. Its illustrations include examples of Indian embroidery, Paleolithic paintings, woven blankets, wing and tail designs, totem poles, hats, cutlery, painted boxes, earthenware, baskets, and many other primitive objects and motifs. This unabridged edition contains the original introduction, preface, documentation, and index, in addition to a new introduction by an expert on Native American art and culture.