riji (men's pubic covering)

unrecorded Australian Aboriginal artist, artist

riji (men's pubic covering), late 1800s–1944

Where object was made: Kimberley, Western Australia, Australia

Material/technique: oyster shell; incising

Dimensions:
Object Length/Width (Length x Width): 18.5 x 13.5 cm
Object Length/Width (Length x Width): 5 5/16 x 7 5/16 in

Credit line: Gift of Karl F. Baldwin

Accession number: 2007.2722

Not on display

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Label texts

Exhibition Label:
"Roots and Journeys: Encountering Global Arts and Cultures," Jul-2011, Nancy Mahaney
In Aboriginal society, the iridescent pearl oyster shell is often associated with water, spiritual power and healing, and is therefore commonly used in ritual objects. This object, known as riji, is used to cover the male pubic area. It is tied around the waist with strains of
human hair. A symbol of status, riji is worn only by the highest initiated men.