Source: “Art/artifact: African Art in Anthropology Collections” by Susan Vogel, Arthur C. Danto.
Source notes:
“Gourds, fiber. H. 10 ¾ in.; 10 ½ in. …To me, the fiber woven gourd is more interesting as an example of traditional craftsmanship and design. The engraved gourd says more about the individual artist, and about the collector for whom it may have been made. The refined workmanship and the way in which the parallel lines emphasize its perfect roundness make the fiber bound gourd aesthetically pleasing. We would consider it excellent design, but not art. However, the originality expressed in the engraved crocodile or lizard raises the engraved gourd to a higher level of interest. Human eyes and nose appear (upside-down) on the creature’s nose.”
