SCHMIDT, R. (Early, 20th Century), A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands

SCHMIDT, R. (Early, 20th Century).
A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands.
Oil on board.
Signed and dated lower left: 'R.SCHMIDT 1917'.
16 3/8" x 12" board.

With inscription 'A Tapu Virgin, British Solomon Islands at the launching of a new war canoe in New Georgia two virgins are taken from the tribe, one is publicly sacrificed, and the other kept in seclusion from 4 to 5 years. During this time an old woman acts as guard over her. Should she break the tabu she is put to death. The skulls on the sticks are a sign to all that if they molest her their heads will be stuck up in the same way. The object in the back-ground is a skull box. The large necklace is of dogs teeth.' on a paper label attached to the reverse.