Figurative Mat Holder (one of a pair)

CultureZulu

Dateca. 1900-1920

MediumWood

DimensionsOverall: 28 7/8 × 2 7/8 × 5/8 inches (73.34 × 7.3 × 1.59 cm)

Credit LineGift of Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, 2025

Object number2025.56.18

On View

Not on view

Terms

DescriptionThis elongated, narrow wooden mat panel (one of a pair) features hand-engraved depictions of human figures in traditional dress. Each panel contains three vertically stacked figures, framed and separated by four bands of geometric patterns. The patterns and figures are burned into the wood surface, creating a relief. The top and bottom bands are made of diamond-shaped, checkerboard-style geometric designs.

On this panel, the two central bands have two central diamond shapes with a symbol reminiscent of an eye carved within. They are flanked by two half-diamond shapes on either side. The top figure appears to be male and is dressed almost identically to the top figure in its partner panel. The middle and bottom figures appear female, dressed in long, dark dresses or wraps. These figures also have stylized hairstyles or headdresses and wear neck and ankle bands.Provenance

Provenance

With Taylor Dale Gallery, Santa Fe, NM, by August 1997 [1];

Purchased from Taylor Dale Gallery by Ralph T. Coe (1929-2010), Santa Fe, NM, August 1997-2010;

His bequest to the Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, NM, 2010-2025;

The Coe Center's gift to The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City, MO, 2025.

NOTES:

[1] According to object documentation provided by the Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts at the time of the object's gift, see Nelson-Atkins curatorial files.

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