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Papua-Malay girl from the island of Tikiene
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Papua-Malay girl from the island of Tikiene
Elau, a Papua-Malay girl from the cannibal island of Tikiene, and a man of Malakula, Vanuatu (Malicolo). Polynesians with elevated foreheads. Handcoloured steel engraving by Lizars after an illustration by Charles Hamilton Smith from his Natural History of the Human Species, Edinburgh, W. H. Lizars, 1848
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Media ID 23166436
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Cannibal Elevated Ethnology Hamilton Human Lizars Species Vanuatu Foreheads Malekula Polynesians Smith
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This handcoloured steel engraving, created by W.H. Lizars after an illustration by Charles Hamilton Smith, showcases two intriguing figures from the Pacific Islands: Elau, a Papua-Malay girl from the cannibal island of Tikiene, and a man from Malakula, Vanuatu, named Malicolo. The image, taken from Smith's Natural History of the Human Species published in Edinburgh in 1848, highlights the unique physical characteristics of these Polynesians, particularly their elevated foreheads. Elau, the young Papua-Malay girl, is depicted wearing a traditional headdress made of feathers and adorned with shells and beads. Her body is painted with intricate designs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of her people. The island of Tikiene, located in the Bismarck Sea, was infamous for its cannibalistic practices, leading to its ominous reputation. However, this image challenges stereotypes by presenting Elau as a beautiful and dignified representative of her community. Malicolo, the Malakula man, is shown wearing a loincloth and adorned with body paint and shells. His most striking feature is his elevated forehead, a common trait among Malakula Islanders. This physical characteristic was believed to be achieved through the use of wooden boards or other means, although the exact methods remain a subject of debate among scholars. Malakula, an island in the Vanuatu archipelago, is known for its diverse and complex culture, which includes unique practices such as land-owning clans and the "Namoluk" ceremony. This engraving is an essential addition to any collection focusing on ethnology, anthropology, or the history of the Pacific Islands. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives and appearances of these indigenous peoples, offering a window into their rich and complex cultures. The meticulous handcolouring adds depth and vibrancy to the image, making it a visually stunning piece that is sure to captivate viewers.
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