Still-life of tribal objects

Painted in the early years of George V's reign, Forge's still-life reflects the ongoing Edwardian interest in enthnicity. Here she depicts various tribal objects from the British Empire and beyond including a Maori taiaha or staff, circa 1830-60; a Leangle club from New South Wales, Australia, circa 1880-90; a Maori carved wood treasure box (without the lid), circa 1840; a swamp fig shield from Queensland, Australia; a carved broad shield made by the aborigines of the Murray River in South Eastern Australia, circa 1850/80; and a native American Indian beaded bag from the northern plains or east coast, circa 1900.