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Anthropomorphic Figure


Columbia River artist, Anthropomorphic Figure, pre-contact, basalt, Museum Purchase: Funds provided by auction proceeds, no known copyright restrictions, 1999.58

This work is not currently on view.

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Details
Title

Anthropomorphic Figure

Artist

Columbia River artist (Columbia River)

Date

pre-contact

Medium

basalt

Dimensions (H x W x D)

55 1/2 in x 17 in x 6 1/2 in

Collection Area

Native American Art

Category

Plateau

Sculpture

Object Type

figure

Cultural Group

Columbia River

Credit Line

Museum Purchase: Funds provided by auction proceeds

Accession Number

1999.58

Copyright

no known copyright restrictions

Terms

basalt

figures

Plateau Native American styles

Description

This is the largest known example of Columbia River stone sculpture. Considering its massive size and the exaggerated genitalia touching the ground, it probably served as a public monument to commemorate an individual either real or mythical, as a symbol of fertility, strength, and renewal.

History
Exhibitions

2005 People of the River: Native Arts of the Oregon Territory Portland Art Museum

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