From Library Journal
The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, has only recently made its notable holdings of American Indian art accessible to the public. The celebratory first exhibition also produced this permanent collection catalog. Masterworks were chosen by five curators (several of whom are well-known Native American literary figures) to show the affinity between 19th-century and modern artistic expression. While the works are superbly photographed, the text is less consistent, with some anecdotes more cogent than others. Attempts to unify dialog about artifacts from many cultures and all media vary, depending on the writer's point of view. Still, the book offers invaluable historical documentation. Most useful are the quotes and perspective based on Native thought, exemplifying a trend toward interpretation of Native art objects by Native Americans that is welcome. Although this is an important addition for specialized library collections, the rich range of text and images will also interest general readers wanting to know more about the arts within Indian culture.?Paula A. Baxter, NYPL
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
