Object Notes

The following is the caption by Elizabeth McCausland accompanying the original 1939 edition of Berenice Abbott's Changing New York publication.

The following is the caption by Elizabeth McCausland accompanying the original 1939 edition of Berenice Abbott's Changing New York publication.

Decorated with incised geometric designs representing pangolin or tortoise scales and a female figure or head, bow stands were items of royal regalia that served both practical and spiritual purposes. They  were used to hold bows and arrows as well as symbolize sacred kingship.

 

This painting on silk, created as a wall hanging, is a fine example of Japanese landscape painting. As is often found in Japanese compositions, a largely empty upper area contrasts with the image of the cranes placed off-center in the lower portion of the scene.