Circa 1890–1910 group portrait of Pacific Islanders and Missionaries.

Ceremonial exchange captured in a colonial-era Pacific group portrait


This image reflects the intersection of Christian missionary activity and Indigenous Pacific communities at the turn of the twentieth century. The composition includes women in missionary-issued muʻumuʻus, men in Western suits, and a child in a printed dress—indicating participation in a formal or ceremonial event.

The man at center-left, likely a missionary or colonial administrator, holds a traditional Polynesian fan woven from pandanus or coconut fiber. Such items often served as gifts or status markers during ritual encounters. Its presence in the image suggests a moment of ceremonial exchange between the visiting party and the local community.


Description: Circa 1890–1910 group portrait of Pacific Islanders and Missionaries.

Hawai‘i or Samoa, ca. 1890–1910]. Original glass lantern slide (3¼ x 4 inches), black-and-white photographic positive, housed in original protective mount. Edges of the emulsion show light surface wear; image otherwise sharp and well preserved.

[3734845]

Price: $125.00

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