monkey run free

Jaguar Pectoral, Mixteca-Puebla, c.1200–1400, Saint Louis Art Museum: Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

In 1519 Magellan set sail from Spain with 5 ships to find a western route to the Moluccas. Battling storms, mutinies, and the unknown, he died in April 1521 before reaching his goal. One ship ultimately returned to Spain after circumnavigating the world.

Tiger and Snake

Antwerp ~ Belgium

Blanket pin, late 19th century, Minneapolis Institute of Art: Art of Africa and the Americas

top of pin has seated stylized bear eating a salmon, held vertically; bear has rounded ears; round inlaid abalone eyes; pick-like pin Tribes that live in the northern section of the Northwest Coast are known for their highly refined sculpture. Characterized by low-relief carving, these northern tribes, which include the Tlingit, often feature clan symbols as their subjects. The bear is a central theme in Tlingit art, and is considered a close relative to humans. Because of this, bears are believed to have special spiritual powers and are, therefore, worthy of respect. Though a small, utilitarian object, this pin brilliantly represents the style and iconography of Northwest Coast tribal traditions. Shallowly carved in abstracted, geometric forms, the sacred bear is shown holding a fish. In addition to the fastidious carving, the artist further embellished the pin by inlaying a piece of mother-of-pearl for the bear’s eye. This pin would have been used to fasten a textile that was draped over the shoulders and around the torso. Worn on the chest, the image of the bear would have been proudly displayed. Size: 3 15/16 x ¾ x 3/8 in. (10 x 1.91 x 0.95 cm) Medium: Ivory, abalone

FAVOURITE SINGLES:

Artist: David Bowie.

Longest Roads in Each European Country