Jesus, Mary, and All of the Saints: Indo-Portuguese Ivory Statuettes and Their Role as Mission Art in Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century Goa
- Format:
- Dissertation
- Year:
- 2007
- University:
- University of Minnesota
- Thesis type:
- Doctoral Dissertation
- Place published:
- Minneapolis, Minn.
- Language:
- Abstract:
This study examines Indo-Portuguese ivory statuettes created in Goa, India, during the seventeenth to eighteenth centuries. Figural types and stylistic characteristics are introduced. However, much of the emphasis in this dissertation is on the ivories' role as mission art, especially under the direction of the Jesuits. One particular subject type provides a thread, which links the entire discussion, the Good Shepherd Rockery, also known as Bom Pastor and Good Shepherd Mount. This image provides a key to Goan ivories and illustrates well the intentions of the Jesuits as well as the aspirations of the Indian artisans. In relation to this, this study examines how these works illustrate the coming together of different cultures. It also examines the phrase "the image is the message." More generally, this study explores the fascination with Indo-Portuguese ivories in the Portuguese market and the renewed interest in these works in the last fifteen years. The aim of this study is two-fold. For one, I hope to add to the overall understanding of these works by digging deeper into their imagery, illustrating the significance of the iconography as well as exploring their Catholic and South Asian characteristics. Secondly, I want to bring these works into the realm of South Asian art history.
- What (Subjects):
- Where (Locations):
- When (Centuries):
- Worldcat URL:
- Other link:
- Number of Pages:
- 269
- ISBN:
- 9780549367130