Title: The American Museum journal
Identifier: americanmuseumjo16amer (find matches)
Year: c1900-(1918) (c190s)
Authors: American Museum of Natural History
Subjects: Natural history
Publisher: New York : American Museum of Natural History
Contributing Library: American Museum of Natural History Library
Digitizing Sponsor: Biodiversity Heritage Library

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Very larf;c china tray, with design in red and bhie adapted from the decoration on a painted robe of buffalo hide made by the Dakota Indians. The rosette was much used by the Indian, showing unconscious appreciation of rhythm and symmetry in design, and is one of the many instances where he took his motive direct from nature which may be classified as follows: First, the artistic value of the original example; second, the suitability of the design to the material and medium to be used; third, the suitability of the design to the size, shape, and use of the article to be decorated; and fourth, the addition of the personal element in the adaptation of the design. If these principles are rigidly followed the Museum exhibits will prove of in- estimable value, and will open the way for the development of a truly American art expression. In adapting Indian motives the primi- tive spirit must be retained or the result will be a disappointment; but a rever- sion to the simplicity and free expression of Indian art is what modern craftsmen most need to counteract the tendency to over decoration, mechanical technique, and lack of individuality. 307

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