Carved Storage Container with Lid
Artifact IDMO 63.1885a-b
Object Type
Sculpture
Date
before 1964
Maker
unknown
Gifter
Ethel Kennedy
Place MadeIvory Coast, Africa
Medium
Wood
DimensionsOverall H 20 in x W 5 in (50.8 cm x 12.7 cm)
Physical DescriptionWooden storage container carved as a figure of a seated woman carrying a basket on her head. Lid is carved with a figure of a pelican.
Historical NoteThis carving was originally collected by Ethel Kennedy during her visit to Ivory Coast and given to President Kennedy. The importunate of the female figure's status is shown by her sitting on a chair.
During the 17th century, contact with Portuguese and European products inspired the new central African art form of the chair or throne. Carved for chiefly authority, the importance of these carvings in terms of prestige and status developed partly because of their association with foreign holders of power.
Additional DetailsDuring the 17th century, contact with Portuguese and European products inspired the new central African art form of the chair or throne. Carved for chiefly authority, the importance of these carvings in terms of prestige and status developed partly because of their association with foreign holders of power.
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift from a member of the general public to the President and Mrs. Kennedy received by the Executive Office of the President betwen 1961-1963 and held by the General Service Administration until it was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Public (National Archives Identifier 1676966)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - PossiblyUse Restriction NoteCopyright and other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of these materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.In Collection(s)
Not on view