Fan (Drel or Ral)

Unknown

late 19th–early 20th century · Pandanus leaves, hibiscus fiber · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

The women of the Marshall Islands are renowned as some of the finest weavers in the Pacific. According to one tradition, if the umbilical cord of a newborn girl is placed among pandanus leaves or other weaving materials then she will grow up to be a talented weaver. In addition to weaving fine mats and baskets, weavers express their skills through the creation of personal adornments and hand fans.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

Pandanus leaves, hibiscus fiber

Culture

Marshallese

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

Gift of American Friends of the Israel Museum, 1983