Aesthetic vs. Utility - Continued
Paul Jacoulet
Japan, c. 1948
Woodblock print
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Child
1982.133.45
Here we see one of the few exacting tasks depicted in Jacoulet’s portraits: a straightforward scene of a basket weaver working. Romoue, Yap is the setting of this print, idyllically depicted in the background. It stands out among Jacoulet’s work as it moves away from Jacoulet’s aesthetic of paradisal leisure and was unexpectedly popular during its release.
BABY CARRIER
Yap, Caroline Islands, 20th Century
Plaited palm leaves
Gift of Madeline and Robert Sharples, in memory of Paul Sharples
1999.65.1
Women were often the makers of fiber and textile arts in Micronesia and they commonly plaited pandanus and palm leaves similar to this baby carrier. Fine baskets in Yap often held personal items such as leaves, betel nuts, and lime. In Pohnpei and Nauru women plaited dress mats and skirts, decorating their plaited leaves with shells, seeds, and feathers that would indicate clan affiliation.
LE BETEL, YAP (The Betel Nut Boy, Yap)
Paul Jacoulet
Japan, c. 1940
Woodblock Print
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Child
1981.117.33
This rare and popular first printing depicts a young boy combining coral lime, mint leaves, and the betel nut with a pestle. Betel nuts are used as an intoxicating stimulant in the Pacific Islands.
PESTLE
Micronesia
Wood
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bennett
1988.41.12
