Herb Kawainui Kane (American, 1928 - 2011) "Traditional Marshallese Messenger" Signed lower right. Original Oil on Illustration Board. Comes with original sketch of stamp layout also.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting was originally published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 29c 10th Anniversary of Postal Service Souvenir Sheet issued May 2, 1994.

Before mail service was initiated in the Marshall Islands, correspondence was transported both by foot and canoe. When missives were sent between chiefs, the messenger would also deliver a gift chosen in accordance with the recipient's status. Often the token would be a fine handcrafted item or food, such as preserved pandanus fruit. Even the dress of the carrier was determined by the recipient's social position. When messages were brought by canoe, the carrier stood by the outrigger section of the boat and signaled to those on shore. A raised paddle was a sign of peace while one that was vigorously waved indicated that the message was urgent. In 1984, the government of the Marshall Islands established its own postal administration for domestic mail. This painting displays traditional methods of message delivery.

Image Size: 21.25 x 27.25 in.
Overall Size: 23.75 x 29.75 in.
Unframed.
(B14646)

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23.75 x 29.75 in