Selected artifacts from our permanent Imperato West African Gallery are pictured below:
The Bridge Between
“The Bridge Between” by Jim Sallenbach for the exhibition Artistic View Of Martin and Osa Johnson’s World. Available! $150 If you would like to help support the museum by purchasing this piece, please call 620-431-2730
Timely Pose by Jim Sallenbach
“Timely Pose” by Jim Sallenbach for the exhibition Artistic View Of Martin and Osa Johnson’s World. Available! $75 If you would like to help support the museum by purchasing this piece, please call 620-431-2730
Timely Moment
"Timely Moment" by Jim Sallenbach for the exhibition Artistic View Of Martin and Osa Johnson's World. Available! $75 If you would like to help support the museum by purchasing this piece, please call 620-431-2730

Osa Johnson in White Jersey Evening Gown
This promo for African Paradise shows one of Osa's OSAfari fashion designs...she didn't get picked one of "America's Most Fashionable Women" for nothing!
“OSA JOHNSON IN GAZELLE SKIN COAT & HAT" Osa Johnson at home wears an African gazelle skin coat and matching brown felt Hat to set a new style for the season. She appears here in person with her new motion picture feature, “AFRICAN PARADISE” to obtain which she lived for four years in the junglesof the Northern Frontier.”

Osa Johnson’s Jungle Jewelry: Flying Flame
Osa Johnson wrote a children's series with three "Jungle" themed books: Jungle Pets, Jungle Babies, & Jungle Friends. One chapter in the books is called "Flying Flame" and details her time with her husband Martin while filming flamingo on Lake Turkana. This brooch was clearly influenced by that trip, which included an aerial safari from Cape Town, South Africa to Cairo, Egypt from 1933-1935 .

Osa Johnson’s Jungle Jewelry: Stylized Masks
From newspaper articles and fashion reviews, we know that Osa Johnson used stylized African & Bornean masks for buttons and brooches...here are the two known examples of the jewelry examples!

Osa Johnson Jungle Jewelry: Animals
We have no idea how many pieces were produced in Osa's jewelry line before her death. Here is a selection of animal from the line...a lion, a Tommy gazelle and a monkey, oh my!

Looking Sharp in Shark Skin
"Living much in the open and studying Nature’s own color and beauty has inspired Mrs. Johnson to contribute freedom and ease, along with grace and alluring hues to Milady’s wardrobe. Here we see her smartly informal, dressed for dinner in the jungle. Even hardship and inconvenience do not permit Osa Johnson from worshiping at the shrine of fashion even when miles from civilization. She has entertained royalty and nobility, and international celebrities unnumbered from many and varied walks of life, with full course formal inners in her jungle camps. Her costume her is white sharkskin, tailored, fitted coat and slacks, worn with yellow, heavy silk blouse decorated by gold and sapphire studs. On breezy evenings Osa wears a sapphire blue scarfover her hair." Quote from the NY TIMES review of Osa Johnson as "One of the Top 12 Best-Dressed American Women"

Naturalist Becomes Fashion Designer
Naturalist Becomes Fashion Designer "Osa Johnson introduces African influence as a new fashion note in millinery. As an explorer and producer of wild life films she captured many novel style ideas in the jungle, inspired by the richness of color and shape as well as by the strange life of animals and natives. Here we see a chapeau adorned with an African wild turkey wing, a color blend of gold, light brown, dark brown and orange, on a velvet hat of African “Masai brown”, a new color of her own creation. With it goes a very sheer French veil, to be tied in a bow at the back or under the chin. And around the neck, a Hudson Bay sable scarf of unusual richness. "

Osa Fashion ScrapBook Archives
Fans of the Johnsons around the globe have donated their cherished scrapbooks and mementos they have collected. This article from one of the dozens of scrapbooks focuses on Osa's Jungle Fashions.

North Borneo Female Gobong Canoe Paddle
This female gobong canoe paddle was originally collected by Joe Tilton, Martin and Osa Johnson's sound man during the 1935 expedition to North Borneo. Upon returning to the states, Jim gave the paddle to the father of his friend, Louis Emanuel, as a souvenir. By the time the man passed away, this museum had opened and we were pleased to accept the donation of the paddle from the Emanuel Family. Martin and Osa were naturalists who pioneered a "Take a Picture, Leave only Footsteps" approach to travel. Post WWII, and with the loss and changing of cultures and traditions, however, Osa's mother Belle Leighty expanded the collection mission of the museum Osa had planned before her death. Belle sent out letters and requests for artifacts, and even before opening in a brick and mortar facility in 1961, the Safari Museum began accepting donations like this to have a representative artifact to link their photos to the customs of the past.

North Borneo Then & Now: Aerial Island Hopping
Equipped with Osa's S-39 giraffe spotted amphibian airplane, the Johnson's made an amazing aerial record of "The Land Below the Wind" in 1935.

North Borneo Now & Then: Musicians
The SOMPOTON is an aerophone, and a wonderful Sabahan local musical instrument. It is constructed from a dried gourd and eight bamboo pipes arranged in a double-layered raft. A small lamella of polod palm (like a tiny bungkau) is inserted in the side of each sounding pipe near its base. The pipes are fitted into a hole on one side of the gourd and sealed with bees wax. The lamellae lie inside the gourd and provide the sound of the completed instrument. The pipes are bound with thin strands of rattan, whereby one of the pipes has no sound; it is merely there to balance the bundle. By blowing and sucking the gourd's mouth, the player can produce a soft-sweet harmonious and continuous sound, not unlike the bagpipe. The sompoton can be played as a solo instrument for personal entertainment or in groups to accompany dancing. It is popular among the Kadazandusun, but variations of the sompoton can be found almost everywhere in Borneo, and other parts of South-East Asia.

North Borneo Now & Then: Weavers
Osa was fascinated by the weavers and their crafts in North Borneo and bought many examples of their handicrafts to wear. She had planned to use a traditional pattern to adorn the end papers of her book Last Adventure, but she died before that could happen. The book was later post humorously published by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato.

17-385 Mende Sande Society Mask (sowei)
Mende Sande Society Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone This mask has an extremely elaborate and highly stylized coiffure that forms five almost vertical disk-like structures atop the head. It also has horn-like structures along the left and right sides that might represent charms or amulets, known as sebe (sebbeh). The hairstyle is a perfect blending of symmetry and showmanship, two aspects that are crucial to the success of this mask’s many duties. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-426 Mende Sande Society Helmet Headdress (sowei)
Mende Sande Society Helmet Headdress (sowei) A black dye made by grinding njui and/or njekoi leaves in a pestle and mortar and then boiling them with water for several days had been applied over the years and resulted in attributing this helmet headdress its distinct luster. The hairstyle is covered with vertically oriented rows of palm leaf patterns that is surmounted by four spherical forms, the largest resting atop the center of the head. The upper portion of the forehead was once rimmed with a row of six Sierra Leonean coins, only one of which remains on the left. The lips are colored pink, representing the use of cross-cultural borrowing applied to an old mask. Two parallel vertical scarifications (ngaya maki) are present beneath each eye. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-371 Mende Bundu Society Helmet Headdress (sowei)
Mende Bundu Society Helmet Headdress (sowei) This Janus face helmet has an elaborate hairstyle with a seated female figure atop the head. The hair is highly stylized into parallel braids with pyro-engraved striations. Raffia is attached to the base, five parallel rows under the rear face represent rolls of neck fat, and overall the mask shows extensive use of patina. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-377 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei)
17-377 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone The multi-colored yarn attached to the base suggests this mask was retired and then reinvented to represent Gonde. Gonde is a Ndoli jowei, an expert in dance who is charged with teaching young Mende girls to dance. Instead of the boot camp Sergeant version of the traditional Ndoli jowei, Gonde is the comic relief and giver of moral support. Gonde is a funny, lovable character who lightens the gloom and reminds everyone that initiation is not always so deadly serious. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-424 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei)
17-424 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone The coiffure of this mask is surmounted and dominated by a seated female figure with an infant on her back. This figure, depicted with neck rolls, has stylized European military epaulets on the shoulders, representing a cross-cultural borrowing of a symbol of power and authority. The presence of the infant symbolizes a central value of the Sande Society, namely motherhood. The figures hairstyle is especially sophisticated; to the Mende, a tousled woman is synonymous with a mad or immoral woman. Cowrie (kypoyo) designs are present on either side of the base of the main coiffure and three vertical striations (ngaya maki) are present beneath each eye. Donated by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato

17-380 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei)
17-380 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei) Gola, Liberia This mask is multi-faceted and bears a full carved bust atop the coiffure. Heightened neck rings appear on the small bust as well as the main helmet of the mask. The hairstyle is very elaborately carved and there are fine examples of traditional scarification overall. The swooping lines around the side faces seem serpentine in origin. The elegant hairstyles and multi-faces on Mende masks symbolize the importance of social cooperation, since a woman needs the help of her friends to dress her hair.

17-427 Mende Sande Society Mask (sowei)
Mende Sande Society Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone A black dye made by grinding njui (njekoi) leaves in a pestle and mortar and then boiling them with water for several days was applied over the years to attain this high luster. The hairstyle is dominated by four large vertical buns. Scarifications (ngaya maki) are present beneath the eyes and also along the outer sides of the eyes. Another line of rectangle forms in relief on the forehead also represents traditional scarifications. Scarification is no longer widely practiced by the Mende peoples. A remnant of the black raffia costume is attached through carved holes in the rim of the last of four large neck rings. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.
Bamana Hyena Suruku Society
This Bamana Hyena Suruku Society Mask is from the Bamana people of Mali. It is a classic example of a Kore society mask worn by adult Bamana males during the initiation of young men into adult status. All Bamana males advance age set societies, replete with various levels of initiation and secret knowledge. The Kore mask is employed by only the most senior of men representing their personal struggle to achieve knowledge and wisdom. The symbolism of this mask identifies it as a Kore society-mask combining human and hyena features. Traditionally, hyenas were thought by the Bamana to represent foolish behavior reflecting an uninformed view of the world, very much like the young male initiates. Carved in secret, the mask was made from a single piece of wood and stands as a demonstration of the skill of the Bamana artisan. Koulikoro District, Mali Donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato

Male & Female Pair of Djoboli Koun Markas
These Djoboli Koun Marka Masks are a paired male and female set. They are extensively covered w/brass & copper applique in various symmetrical patterns. These masks came from Arrondissement of Katiena, Cercle of Segou, Mali. Donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato
Lega Face Mask.
This Lega Face Mask, from the Republic of Congo , was used by the Bwami Initiation Society. The central face is coated with kaolin and the mask exhibits use patina and is an excellent example of Lega artisanship. The harmonious oval forms give the mask it’s great balance and are traditional to Lega art. Donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato
Djoboli Koun Marka Mask
This Djoboli Koun Marka Mask is virtually covered w/brass & copper applique in the shape of circles & strips. There are 2 brass & copper tresses on each side & 2 striated horns are on either side of the head w/a seated male figure between them on top of the mask. This mask came to us from Arrondissement of Katiena, Cercle of Segou, Mali. Donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato
Dan Face Mask
We have a number of Dan Masks available for exhibition. This particular type of mask is used by the Poro Initiation Society in Liberia and the Cote d’Ivoire, and this example is from the Cote d’Ivoire. Donated by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-364 Mende Bundu Society Mask (sowei)
Mende Bundu Society Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone This mask’s intricately sculpted hairstyle is comprised of twelve vertical tresses covering the head, plus two smaller ones over the forehead. It has a delicately carved face, three folds representing rolls of fat on the neck (considered a sign of health and attractiveness by the Mende), and striations creating eyebrows. A conical form atop the head may represent a horn used as sebe (sebbeh), the Mende term for charms or amulets. There is extensive performance use patina all over the mask, red vegetable dye has been applied to the lower lip, and black raffia is attached to the base through carved holes along its rim. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.
28-2 Yoruba Ibeji Twin Figure
The Yoruba people of Nigeria have traditionally regarded the birth of twins as a supernatural phenomenon. Twins are considered semi-divine and are born possessing special powers. If a twins dies, the parents consult a diviner to determine if an Ibeji memorial figure should be carved as a substitute and in honor of the deceased child. Today, photographs with duel-image photo shopping can replace carvings. Twin effigies were treated and cared for as if they were living children; they are fed, washed, taken on family outings. This is to appease the spirit of the deceased twin so that he or she will rest and also bring good fortune to the family. Though carved for a specific deceased child, each Ibeji are designed as the adult version rather than the child to encourage the young soul to return to earth, be reborn and have another chance to grow into adulthood. Donated by Mr. Robert Helmholz
Field Work
Stella Moo Tan, Sabah Curator with Masri Angau and Rosalie Corpuz. Masri and his family appear in the Johnson's photos from 1920 & 1935, and members of Rosalie's family appear in the 1935 collection. Both have been incredibly helpful to staff from the Sabah & Safari Museums in helping to put names to faces and places in the photos.
Sunset along the Kinabatangan
In 2004, Sabah curator Stella Moo Tan and Safari Curator Jacquelyn Borgeson retraced a section of the Johnsons travels in North Borneo from Sandakan to Kampung Abai, the nearest town to where Martin and Osa had their river camp they called "Johnsonville."
Gomantong Bat Cave
In 1935, Martin Johnson stood chest high in guano surrounded by scorpions & cockroaches to snap scenes of the 2 million resident bats spiral out of this cave at night! Today wooden scaffolding rides atop the now estimated 12ft of guano covering the cave floors.
North Borneo Then & Now
Staff from the Safari Museum first went to Borneo in 2004 to bring digitized copies of the surviving 2800 photographs Martin and Osa Johnson took in 1920 & 1935 home to the people in the images. The Johnsons path was retraced by Sabah and Safari Staffers and modern images were matched with those from the collections. People like Masri Angau appeared in the expedition photos as children and graciously helped staff find the names and locales of the collection photos. Martin Johnson died before labeling the photos from the 1935 trip, so were still working on the ground in Sabah and in the archives in Kansas to put a name to every face and place we can!
Helicopter Article
This newspaper article was donated by Christine Moran of California. It details and elaborate Helicopter Safari Osa was planning. Unfortunately Osa fell ill and died before this expedition could be undertaken. It is housed in the museum's Henshall Archives.
Opening Gifts
Here's a shot of the Christmas we have everyday at the Safari Museum! These six boxes held 14 artifacts from West Africa---including the Baboon mask in this shot---and were recently donated by Dr Pascal J. Imperato and his wife Eleanor. This was just one of over 10 donations we received from the Imperatos in 2013. These artifacts are now part of our African Collections and will be utilized in our Imperato West African Gallery onsite and will be made available for both traveling exhibitions and for educational research.

Photo Montage Slane Family Donation
This photo montage includes three of the dozens of original Johnson photographs donated by Dan Slane. Dan's father Bill was a long-term supporter of the museum close personal friend of Martin and Osa's African Safari pilot Vern Cartstens. Carstens had given Bill some of his original photos and after Bill passed away, Dan collected anything "Johnsonian" from his father's estate and donated it to the museum. Besides the photographs, Dan gifted us with artifacts and a vast number of museum memorabilia including clippings, photos and promotional pieces. These photographs will be accessed into the Johnson Photographic Collection, which is housed in the museum's Henshall Archives.
Lake Paradise Moss
Dr. Pascal & Eleanor Imperato, honorary trustees of our museum, visited Lake Paradise in 1977 & collected Old Man's Beard Moss from Martin & Osa's Campsite. They donated a bundle of it to the museum so we can have a little piece of Paradise here in Oz. Mail call at the Safari Museum is never boring! The Imperatos donated a rock from foundation of the Johnsons house at Lake Paradise some years ago and this sample of moss will be put on display with the rock after we get it registered and prepared.
Safari Museum Promotion
This publicity card, from the earliest days of the museum, was donated by Tim and Sheila Kennedy of Kennedy's Attic in Chanute, Kansas. It is now housed in the museum-related collection section within our Henshall Archives.
German Program for Film Borneo
This is one of two German Programs for Film Borneo donated by Lloyd Zimmer of Lloyd Zimmer, Books & Maps of Topeka Kansas. The programs are now housed in our film ephemera collection in the museum's Henshall Archives.

17-368 Mende Bundu Society Helmet Mask (sowei)
17-368 Mende Bundu Society Helmet Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone This complex coiffure is configured into 13 parallel rows running from front to back and 3 parallel rows at the base in the back and sides ending in 7 vertical configurations in the rear. What is the bottom of the mask today, would have once been the neck roll that contained holes to attach the raffia costume. The serrations are where the holes were and where the mask likely snapped and the costume portion broke away, either before and leading to or post-retirement All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-425 Mende Bundu Society Helmet Mask (sowei)
Cowrie (kyoyo) shell carvings crown the forehead of this mask and the hairstyle consists of incised geometric lines overall. The rounded form in the center of this mask’s hairstyle may represent sebe and/or sebbeh, the Mende term for charms or amulets. The four antelope horns likely symbolize “good medicine” called hale nyande or they may have been a sign of office as horns have a history as symbols of Mende chieftaincy and elder status. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-393 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei)
17-393 Mende Sande Society Helmet Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone The coiffure of this mask is intricate, with three broad tresses surmounted by an oval structure. The back of the hairstyle is richly sculpted with 12 oblong abstract structures and a central rectangle. The hairstyle culminates into a rounded horn-like structure that might represent sebe and/or sebbeh, the Mende term for charms or amulets. The features of each mask’s face is held to a standard, but individuality has free reign in the design of the coiffures. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-422 Mende Bundu Society Helmet Mask (sowei)
17-422 Mende Bundu Society Helmet Mask (sowei) Sierra Leone Four birds surrounding a house exemplify the symmetry that is the root of the ideal Mende mask. The Janus double-face aspect represents the power the Sande spirit (Ngafu) has by seeing everything. The fish carved on the sides are symbolic of the Ngafu’s riverine home and the secrets of her power. The bottom of the mask has been smoothed, perhaps for resale after retirement, but it still shows the remnants of the original bore holes from that originally held the black raffia dance costume. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.

17-419 Mende Society Helmet Headdress (sowei)
The coiffure of this mask features several geometric elements crested by two carved bird figures. The birds are seemingly intertwined, with one facing forward and the other backward. Birds are often depicted as symbols of a woman’s intuition by the Mende, but more universally across many African cultures, they are portrayed as messengers between spirits and humans. All of the Sowei/Bundu Masks in this exhibition were collected and donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.
17-382 Mende Sowei Society Mask
Mende Sowei Society Mask Donated to our museum by Dr. Pascal J. Imperato and Eleanor M. Imperato.
1561 “Tabula Asiae X”
[NO. 18] “Tabula Asiae X” (Tenth Map of Asia). From Claudius Ptolemy’s Geographia. Venice: Girolamo Ruscelli (1561) Wood block engraving. Paper size is approx. 11 x 9 inches. Matted and framed with frame size of 17 x 15 inches. $375.00 Ptolemy (90-168 AD) is believed to have worked in Alexandria, Egypt and to have compiled the works of Marinus of Tyre and other Roman and ancient Persian geographers into a single volume with 27 maps of the known world. Manuscript copies are believed to have passed into Europe around 1400 and to have been first printed in Bologne in 1477. Ptolemy is credited with pioneering such cartographic standards as placing north at the top of his maps, using a labeled grid of latitude and longitude, using mathematical projections, and even the use of sea and land monsters strategically placed to draw the viewers attention (though not incorporated into the Ruscelli edition).
1862 “Johnson’s Africa” Map
[GS045] “Johnson’s Africa.” From Colton’s General Atlas. New York: Johnson and War (1862) Hand colored lithograph. 17.5 in x 24.5 in (44 cm x 62 cm). $175.00 SOLD! Thank you for supporting our museum!

1876 “Nord-Atlantischer Ocean” Map
[GS014] “Nord-Atlantischer Ocean.” From Adolf Stieler's Hand Atlas uber Alle Theile der Erde und Uber das Weltgebaude. Gotha: Justus Perthes (1876) Hand colored lithograph. 18 in x 14.5in (46 cm x 37 cm). $95.00
1876 “Oestliche Halbkugel”
[GS017] “Oestliche Halbkugel” From Adolf Stieler's Hand Atlas uber Alle Theile der Erde und Uber das Weltgebaude. Gotha: Justus Perthes (1876) Hand colored lithograph. 16.5 in x 14 in (42cm x 35.5 cm). $75.00
1876 “America”
[GS050] “America” From Adolf Stieler's Hand Atlas uber Alle Theile der Erde und Uber das Weltgebaude. Gotha: Justus Perthes (1876) Lithograph, hand colored in outline. 13.5 in x 17 3/4 in (34.5 cm x 43.5 cm). $175.00

1875 “Co.of California with inset San Francisco”
[GS039] “County Map of the State of California.” With inset map of “San Francisco.” From Mitchell’s New General Atlas, Containing Maps of the Various Countries of the World, Plans of Cities, etc. Philadelphia: S. Augustus Mitchell (ca. 1875) Hand colored lithograph. 14 3/4 in x 21 3/4 in (37 cm x 55 cm). $175.00
1876 “Mittel- und Nord-Afrika…”
[GS016] “Mittel- und Nord-Afrika, westlicher Theil” From Adolf Stieler's Hand Atlas uber Alle Theile der Erde und Uber das Weltgebaude. Gotha: Justus Perthes (1876) Lithograph, hand colored in outline. 17.5 in x 14 in (44cm x 36 cm). $75.00
1683 “Salvador De L’Afrique” Map
[GS005] “Salvador De L’Afrique, XLVIII (M’Banza-Kongo)” From Mallet’s Description de l'Univers Contenant les Différents Systèmes du Monde, les Cartes Générales & Particulières de la Géographie Ancienne et Moderne... Paris: Chez Denys Thierry (1683) Hand colored steel engraving. 4.5 in x 7 1/4 in (11.5 cm x 8.5 cm) $75.00...SOLD & DONATED in Memorial to the Museum! Thank You!

GS 036 1876 “Kansas and Nebraska” Map
[GS036] “County & Township Map of the States of Kansas and Nebraska.” From A New General Atlas. Philadelphia: S. A. Mitchell, Jr. (1876) Hand colored lithograph. $135.00
B2 “Descriptio Borneo Insulae”
(B2) Title: “Descriptio Borneo Insulae” from Petrus Bertius’ Commentariorum Rerum Germanicarum libri tres published in Amsterdam by J. Janssonius (1616). Wood block engraved, hand colored. Image size is approx. 5 ½ x 4 inches (approx. 14 x 10 cm). Double matted with suede surface and nicely framed with museum glass. Frame size is approx. 11 ½ x 10 inches (approx. 29 x 25 cm). Discussion: This miniature map of Borneo by Petrus Bertius is largely based upon that of his brother-in-law, cartographer, Pieter van den Keere who is credited with creating the first insular map of Borneo in 1595. This map by Bertius is oriented with north on the right and shows several towns along the western and southern sea boards. The eastern edge of the island (lower edge on this map) as depicted here is mostly hypothetical, whereas the information detailed on the western side was mostly gather from Portuguese records. Condition: Leaf shows a little age toning, though overall remains in Near Fine condition. An exceptionally nice example of this scarce map. Price: $600.00 Sold and Donated to the Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum Thank You!!
B3 “L’Asie”
B3 Title: "L'Asie" from Nicolas Sanson’s self-published Geographise en Historische Werelt Beschryving, Paris (1683). Copper engraved. Hand colored. Image size is approx. 11 x 7 ½ inches (approx. 28 x 19 cm). Shrink wrapped in double mat with suede surface. Mat size is approx. 15 x 12 inches (approx. 38 x 30 cm). Discussion: This attractive and detailed map first published in 1683 draws upon Sansons’ much larger map of Asia from 1652. The discoveries of the Maarten de Vries expedition of 1643 were finally incorporated combining Hokkaido and the southern Kurils into a huge island, shown with the two place names of le Tessoy P and Matzumay. Korea is depicted here as an island, and this version of the map extends another 10° east to include part of New Guinea, identified here as the Terre de Papous. Condition: Strong and clear impression with good color. Paper shows a little aging and very light soiling. Right margin has been trimmed to about one quarter inch beyond the printed boundary. Price: 450.00

B4 “Les Isles Philippines Molucques et de La Sonde / Les Isles du Iapon”
(B4) Title: “Les Isles Philippines Molucques et de La Sonde / Les Isles du Iapon” from Jacques Peeters’ self-published L'Atlas en Abrégé, ou Nouvelle Description du Monde, Anvers [Antwerp] (1692). Copper engraved. Hand colored. Image size is approx. 6 ½ x 5 ½ inches (approx. 16 x 14 cm). Double matted with suede surface and nicely framed utilizing museum glass. Frame size is approx. 15 x 14 inches (approx. 38 x 36 cm). Discussion: Somewhat detailed map showing cities and some smaller settlements, as well as rivers, mountains, and forests. The equator is marked and latitude / longitude indicators are seen on the border of the map. Condition: Moisture stains at upper outside corners and lower center fold crease. Image remains very strong and clear with good color, and only minimally affected by stains. Price: $575.00
B5 “Asia Antiqua et Nova”
(B5) Asia Antiqua et Nova” from Philipp Cluver’s Introductio in Universam Geographicam. Amsterdam (1697). Copper engraved, hand colored. Image size is approx. 10 ½ x 8 ½ inches (approx. 27 x 22 cm). Shrink wrapped in doubled mat with suede surface. Mat size is approx. 15 x 13 inches (approx. 38 x 33 inches). Discussion: Very attractive example of Cluver’s image of Asia, including the islands of the East Indies. The outlines of this map are based upon those of Gerhard Mercator and Jodocus Hondus early 17th century productions showing the Arctic and extreme northeast coastlines truncated, as well as an elongated KoreanPeninsula and a narrow Indian Peninsula. There is much less accuracy and detail along the continuum from west to east, and the islands exhibit a number of speculative coastlines and other features. North America can be seen at the upper right. The title cartouche is of a female Asia flanked by a large feline and a large parrot. Condition: Very slight offsetting and age toning. Still a very crisp and clear image holding its contemporary color well. Overall condition would be Near Fine. Price: $450.00

B6 “Ancient Asia According to its General Divisions…”
(B6) Title: “Ancient Asia According to its General Divisions and Names of its Countries together with their Chief Cities Rivers Mountains,” from Edward Wells’ A New Sett of Maps both of Ancient and Present Geography. Oxford (1701). Steel engraving, hand colored. Image size is approx. 20 x 15 inches (approx. 51 x 38 cm). Shrink wrapped in double mat with suede surface. Mat size is approx. 26 x 20 inches (approx. 66 x 51 cm). Discussion: Attractive map showing continental Asia with most of her islands, and portions of north east Africa. The landmasses known in the time of Ptolemy (i.e. 100 ad) are outlined with darker hachures than the more eastern regions yet explored. Japan, Malaysia, and Indonesia appear with notations that they were not know or explored by the ancients. The mythical lake Chiamay is seen in China and the origins of the Nile are represented as inaccurately portrayed by Ptolemy. The map includes numerous notations of historic interest, as well as three separate cartouches. In one, the map is dedicated to William, Duke of Gloucester, who was a pupil of Edward Wells at Oxford. Condition: Some wear along edges, and left edge has been remargined with new paper. Image remains crisp and clear, and contemporary coloring remains bright. Overall, Good condition. Price: $650.00 Sold

B8 “Isole di Sunda Borneo Sumatra Iava Gande…”
(B8) Title: “Isole di Sunda Borneo Sumatra Iava Gande &c.,” from Atlante Novissimo Che Contiene Tutte le Parti swl Mondo compiled by Guillaume De L'Isle and published by Nella Stamperia di Giambattista Albrizzi in Venice circa 1740 - 1750. Steel engraved. Un-colored. Image size is approx. 14 x 11 ½ inches (approx. 36 x 29 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 20 ½ x 16 ½ (approx. 52 x 42 cm). Discussion: This map is attributed to Dutch bookseller, publisher, and cartographer Isaak Tirion (1705 – 1765). It is significant for the great detail of cities, villages, mountains, rivers, and islands. Condition: Very precise engraving with strong and clear images. Slight offsetting and smudges, mostly in blank space outside of map borders. Center fold is a little pulled together, resulting in slight loss of the image along the fold. Price: $185.00

B9 “Isole Filippine, Ladrones, e Moluccos…”
(B9) Title: “Isole Filippine, Ladrones, e Moluccos, o Isole dell Speziarie come anco Celebes &c.” from Atlante Novissimo Che Contiene Tutte le Parti swl Mondo compiled by Guillaume De L'Isle and published by Nella Stamperia di Giambattista Albrizzi in Venice circa 1740 - 1750. Steel engraved. Un-colored. Image size is approx. 13 x 11 inches (approx. 33 x 28 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 19 x 24 inches (approx. 48 x 61 cm). Discussion: This map is attributed to Dutch bookseller, publisher, and cartographer Isaak Tirion (1705 – 1765). It is significant for the great detail of cities, villages, mountains, rivers, and islands. Condition: Very precise engraving with strong and clear images. Very light smudges, mostly in blank space outside of map borders. Price: $225.00

B10 “Asia According to ye Newest Observations”
(B10) Title: “Asia According to ye Newest Observations” by Herman Moll, from Salmon's Modern History of all Nations published by Thomas Salmon in London (ca. 1750). Steel engraving, uncolored. Image size is approx. 10 x 7 inches (26 x 18 cm) in size. Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 14 x 12 inches (approx. 36 x 30 inches). Discussion: Attractive and fairly detailed, though reduced from Moll’s 1708 map of Asia. The islands show inaccuracies in coastlines, and to some degree their relation to each other. Many of the geographic depictions remain speculative. This is particularly so in the north east regions. Condition: Very strong impression and clear and precise detail. There are a couple of small ink marks on edges, originating at the time of printing. Overall condition is Near Fine. Price: $200.00

B11 “The Philippine Islands and others…”
(B11) Title: “The Philippine Islands and others of the East Indies According to the Newest Observations” by Herman Moll, from Salmon's Modern History of all Nations published by Thomas Salmon in London (1754). Steel engraving, uncolored. Image size is approx. 10 x 7 inches (26 x 18 cm) in size. Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 15 x 12 inches (approx. 38 x 30 cm). Discussion: Herman Moll (1654 – 1732) arrived in London in 1678 where he opened a book and map store and began producing maps based upon his study of other cartographers. His exact origins are unknown, though likely Amsterdam. This map of the Philippine Islands, seems to center more on Borneo, and is one of the more detailed and accurate European maps of this period. Condition: Slight aging and wrinkles confined to margins. Overall this map remains in Near Fine condition. Price: $300.00
B12 “Map of East India Islands”
(B12) Title: “Map of East India Islands” from unknown source. Published in London, ca. 1780. Steel engraving, uncolored. Image size is approx. 9 x 7 inches (approx. 23 x 18 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 14 x 12 inches (approx. 36 x 30 cm). Discussion: Attractive and fairly detailed map centered on Borneo and showing many of the coastal cities. Condition: Two fold creases as issued. Very slight aging. Overall condition remains Near Fine. Price: $125.00

B13“Asie ou l’on n’a indique que ses Principales Divisions et leurs Capitalles”
(B13) Title: “Asie ou l’on n’a indique que ses Principales Divisions et leurs Capitalles,” from Edmonde Mentelle’s self-published work, La Cosmographie Elementaire’. Paris (1781) Steel engraving, outlined in color. Image size is approx. 11 x 9 inches (approx. 28 x 23 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 16 x 14 inches (approx. 41 x 36 cm). Discussion: Edmonde Mentelle was a French geographer and historian who published a number of separate maps, geography books, and minor atlases. His works were attractive and accessible, showing political boundaries, major cities, and major rivers and mountains. Condition: There are several folds in this map, as it was issued. Clear detail and good color on borders. Overall, Near Fine condition. Price: $125.00

B14 “A New Map of the East Indies [with inset of The Mouth of the Ganges]”
(B14) Title: “A New Map of the East Indies [with inset of The Mouth of the Ganges]” by John Bayly and from William Martyn’s The Geographical Magazine or a New, Copious, Compleat and Universal System of Geography. London: John Harrison (1784). Steel engraving, hand colored in outline. Image size is approx. 12 ½ x 9 inches in size (approx. 32 x 23 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 18 ½ x 15 inches (approx. 47 x 38 cm). Discussion: John Bayley was an engraver who worked in London during the latter half of the 18th century. Although most of his work was for larger, single image, productions, he contributed significantly to William Martyn’s Geographical Magazine from which this map comes. It is significant for its simplicity of layout and ease of use for the more casual user. Condition: Two vertical folds, as issued. Slight signs of age, though overall a little better than Very Good condition. Price: $150.00

B15 “Chart of the East India Islands…”
(B15) Title: “Chart of the East India Islands Exhibiting the Several Passages Between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.” Source unknown, though published in London in 1802. Steel engraving, uncolored. Image size is approx. 10 x 8 ½ inches (approx. 25 x 22 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 15 x 13 inches (approx. 38 x 33 cm). Discussion: Accurate in outline and showing many of the smaller surrounding islands. Major cities and water features are shown. Condition: Light age toning on edges, though overall a Near Fine copy. Price: 75.00
B16 “East Indies”
(B16) Title: “East Indies” from Encyclopedia Britannica, Fourth edition, published by A. [Andrew] Bell in Edinburgh (1810). Steal engraving, uncolored. Image size is approx. 11 ½ x 7 inches (approx. 29 x 18 cm) in size. Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 15 ½ x 11 inches (approx. 39 x 28 cm). Discussion: Generally accurate map showing the continent and island outlines in in good form, yet lacking much detail inland, especially on the islands. Condition: Slight moisture discoloration at lower left corner. Two fold creases as issued. Overall about Very Good condition. Price: 85.00
B17 “East India Islands”
(B17) Title: “East India Islands” from unknown world geography published by Thomas Kelly in London between 1814 and 1832. Steel engraving, uncolored. Image size is approx. 10 x 7 ½ inches (approx. 25 x 29 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 14 x 12 inches (approx. 36 x 30 cm). Discussion: Very detailed map of the East Indian Islands, showing most of the cities, mountains, and rivers. Attractive border. Condition: Lower edge below border has been trimmed with some loss of publisher’s name. Light handling crease at lower left corner, mostly outside of border. Otherwise a Near Fine copy. Price: $100.00

B18 “Eastern Islands or Malay Archipelago”
(B18) Title: “Eastern Islands or Malay Archipelago,” published in London by Baldwin & Cradock for the “Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (1836). Lithograph, hand colored in outline. Image size is approx. 15 ½ x 12 ½ inches (approx. 39 x 32 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 20 ½ x 17 ½ inches (approx. 52 x 44 cm). Discussion: The Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (roughly 1826 to 1848) published a variety of mostly scientific material designed to be accessible to the working and middle class. It promoted self-education and the sharing of knowledge. More than 200 maps were published over the course of their existence. This map of the Malay Archipelago prominently shows Borneo at the center, with the following text: “Borneo produces gold, tin, diamonds, camphor, spices &c. Interior unknown, but inhabited by the aboriginal Dayaks & the coasts by Malays & Chinese. Borneo is 3 times larger than Great Britain & divided into several independent states. Probably population, 3,000,000.” Condition: There are a few light wrinkles and slight age toning along edges. Image remains bright and clean. Overall condition is about Very Good+. Price: $180.00
B19 “Oceana or Pacific Ocean”
(B19) Title: “Oceana or Pacific Ocean” from Henry S. Tanner’s A New Universal Atlas… published in Philadelphia by Carey & Hart (1845). Steel engraving, hand colored. Image size is approx. 15 ½ x 12 inches (approx. 39 x 30 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 20 x 17 inches (approx. 51 x 43 cm). Discussion: Borneo is a vast distance across the Pacific Ocean from the U.S. It still takes nearly 48 hours to get there by passenger plane. Just imagine such a trip for Martin and Osa Johnson in the first part of the 20th century… it really was a different world for them to explore and document for future generations. Condition: Slight age toning and a few very slight smudges, mostly in blank margins. Very small tears on edge that had been bound into an atlas, with professional reinforcement on the verso of the image. Overall a little better than Very Good. Price: $110.00
B20 “Borneo”
(B20) Title: “Borneo” from unknown source published by A. Fullarton & Co. of London (circa 1856). Steel engraving with shaded color. Image size is approx. 5 ½ x 9 ½ inches (approx. 14 x 24 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 10 x 13 ½ inches (approx. 25 x 34 cm). Discussion: Very detailed and finely engraved map of Borneo. Note chart showing the height of mountains found on the island. Condition: Slight signs of age, though overall Near Fine condition. Price: $85.00

B21 “The Island of Borneo [with] Celebes and the Molucca Islands”
(B21) Title: “The Island of Borneo [with] Celebes and the Molucca Islands,” from The Imperial Atlas of Modern Geography published in London by Blackie and Son (1859). Lithograph, hand colored in outline. Image size is approx. 20 x 13 inches (approx. 51 x 33 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 26 x 19 inches (approx. 66 x 48 cm). Discussion: Highly detailed maps showing geo-political boundaries, cities, mountains, and rivers. Blackie maps are very popular for genealogy and other research because of their great precision and attention to detail. Condition: Slight separation at fold ends, and just a little light creasing on edges. Overall Very Good condition. Price: $175.00
B22 “Asia”
(B22) Title: “Asia,” from The Illustrated Atlas and Modern History of the World… published in London by The London Printing and Publishing Company (1860). Steel engraving, uncolored. Image size is approx. 12 x 9 ½ inches (approx. 30 x 24 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 18 x 15 inches (approx. 46 x 38 cm). Discussion: Highly detailed map of the whole of the Asian continent, attributed to English cartography John Tallis (1817 -1876). However, as with many such maps through the 19th century, details of the islands are weak. Condition: Approx. one inch, square, is cut from upper right corner, outside of border and not affecting image. Scattered light foxing can be seen along left side, and a little inside upper border on left side. Fold creases, as issued. Overall about Good+ condition. Price: $110.00
B23 “East Indies”
(B23) Title: “East Indies” from unknown atlas published by George Philip & Sons (circa 1910). Image size is approx. 19 x 14 inches (approx. 48 x 36 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 26 x 21 inches (approx. 66 x 53 cm). Discussion: Fairly detailed map showing most of the geographic features, cities, and waterways as known at the time. This is how Martin Johnson would have found Borneo on and the East Indies on his first voyage to the South Seas along with Jack and Charmian London in 1908. Condition: Slight age toning on edges, though overall in Near Fine condition. Price: $120.00
B24 “Colony of North Borneo”
(B24) Title: “Colony of North Borneo” printed by the Survey Department, Federation of Malay (1949). Colored map with image size of approx. 9 x 6 ½ inches (approx. 23 x 16 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 15 x 12 ½ inches (approx. 38 x 32 cm). Discussion: Government issued map showing details of West Coast Residency, East Coast Residency, and Labuan & Interior Residency. Condition: Twice folded, as issued. Overall in Near Fine condition. Price: $85.00
B25 “Colony of North Borneo”
(B25) Title: “Colony of North Borneo,” printed by the Survey Department, Federation of Malaya (1949). Image size is approx. 15 ½ x 12 inches (approx. 39 x 32 cm). Matted and shrink wrapped. Mat size is approx. 20 ½ x 17 inches (approx. 52 x 43 cm). Discussion: Detailed government issued folding map of the Colony of North Borneo, now known as Sabah, East Malaysia. Condition: Red penciled circle around Paper, and two very small and light stains just below Rundum. Light handling wear. Overall a strong image remaining very clean. Price: $80.00
Bambara [Bamana] Horseman Figure
Horseman Figure, 19th century; Bambara, Massig, Dioila District, Mali Gift of Dr. Pascal James Imperato, 1980 (17-299) Gouantigui depicted as a horseman holding up a knife...The style is indicative of the Gouan Society, but the facial features and conical hat show Moslem influence...This figure symbolizes the "Ndemadyiri", the divine blacksmith.
Peul Ankle Bracelets
Peul Ankle Bracelets, 19th century; Peul peoples; Moputi District, Mali Gift of Dr. Pascal James Imperato, 1980 (17-116, 17-117) These heavy steel anklets have hexagonal shaped ends with highly decorated surfaces...They were once worn by married woman from the nomadic Peul of the Inland Delta of Niger.
Bayaka Helmet Mask
Helmet Mask, 19th century; Bayaka, Democratic Republic of Congo Gift of Dr. Pascal James Imperato, 1980 (17-113) This mask was used by a boy after his bush school training had ended with his initiation into manhood...The initiate and his age-set companions from nearby villages would wear the masks when they went from community to community dancing in celebration of their newly acquired manhood...At each performance, the best dancers and carvers would be rewarded with money and gifts.
Poro Society Dan Mask
Mask, 19th century; Poro society; Dan peoples; Liberia Gift of Dr. Pascal James Imperato, 1973 (17-26) This highly symmetrical mask represents a woman and was used by the Poro Society of the Dan peoples of Liberia...It was danced in ceremonies associated with the circumcision of youths.
IbibioCap Mask
Cap mask, 19th century; Ibibio peoples; Nigeria Gift of Geraldine and Wilton Felder, 1977 (43-1) This cap mask was made by the Ibibio people in Nigeria to venerate ancestors and to enforce the statutes of the Secret Society.
Songhay Ankle Bracelet
Songhay Ankle Bracelet; Douentza District, Mali Gift of Dr. Pascal J. Imperato, 1973 (17-121) This intricately sculpted ankle bracelet was once worn by a Songhay woman in the Niger Bend region as personal adornment.
Dogon Granary Door and Lock
Dogon Granary Door and Lock; Songo, Bandiagara District, Mali Gift of Dr. Pascal J. Imperato, 1973 (17-102) This door was carved to fit the small opening in the side of a tall granary building built from mud bricks...The sculpted figures that line the door represent nommo, the mythical ancestors of the Dogon.
Bambara Maternity Figure
From the Massigi of the Dioila District of Mali, this large maternity figure is called a Grandoudusu. It was the central focus of a family shrine. Members of a fertility society were charged with making regular petitions to the ancestor spirit housed in this statue in order to secure the prosperity and population of the community.
Bambara Baboon Mask
Known as a Zantegeba, which translates as "he with large paws." this mask from the Bamako District of Mali was once danced in the western Bambara country by age-set society males. The masquerade was most likely performed at night so that women and children would not be witness to it.
Maure Ankle Bracelets
These 19th century ankle bracelets were used by the Maure people of Nouakchott, Mauritania, and were once worn by a Maure woman as personal adornment.
Bambara Antelope Headdress
This Bambara Antelope Headdress from the Kangaba District of Mali is called a "Gonzon koun," and is decorated with m ake goat hair and has elaborately carved ornaamentation that is indicative of traditional scarification practices. The wooden head of the antelope is carved to swivel on its body as the headdress is danced, mainly in agricultural festivals.
Baule Face Mask
This Baule Face Mask from 19th century Côte d'Ivoire is in the image of a beautiful woman and was once used by the Baule men at agricultural ceremonies.
Male Spirit Mask
Male spirit masks among the Ibo (Igbo) Society of Eastern Nigeria are danced by the middle grades of the Ibo men's secret society called the "Mmo." They perform with more elaborately sculpted maiden spirit masks at annual festivals, mimicking the daily activities of village life. The goal of their pantomimes is the social control and education of youths and new initiates.
Ere Gelende Mask
The Gelende secret society of the Yoruba people in the Western region of Nigeria placates the witches and gods by entertaining them with this Ere Gelende mask.
Malinke Stool
From the 19th century this Malinke stool from Tiebasa, Kita District in Mali, was made by the Eastern Malinke who live in close proximity to and are highly influenced by the Bambara. This stool was used for daily household use by both men and women. The actual maker would have been either a blacksmith or a member of a special caste of wood carvers called a "Koule."
Baga Nimba Shoulder Mask
This heavy wooden mask, from the Baga of Guinea, is placed over the shoulders of the dancer whose only line of sight is through the small square hole carved between the breasts. A grass skirt is tied below the breasts and around the waist to conceal the dancer's identity. The headdress is used by the Simo Secret Society during ceremonies after the rice harvest.
Cap Mask, Bamum people
Many members of the Bamum people in Cameroon are now Muslim, but in certain places the old religion and belief in a god called Njinyi are still alive. This mask is from the 19th century.
Pende Face Mask
This face mask, from the Pende people of Zaire in the 19th century, is worn in a dance when young men return to the village after circumcision in the initiation schools. The mask with half-open eyes, slightly up-turned nose, pointed chin, and curved beard is quite common.
Bambara Drum
Created by the Bambara in the Sikasso District of Mali, this drum is called a "Bara." It is made from a calabash gourd covered with cowhide and tied with ropes and an iron ring. It is used by age-set associations in performances and pantomimes.
Mmo Cap Mask
In the 19th century the Ibo people of Nigeria created this Mmo cap mask in the form of a human face surmounted by a female figure in front and a leopard in the back.
Bambara N’Tomo Mask
From the 19th century, this mask is from the Cercle of San District, Mali. The four horned mask of the N'tomo society symbolizes that men and women both contain masculine and feminine qualities from birth. The symbol of the crocodile here represents the femininity of humanity.
Maasai Head Dress
This Warrior's Head Dress is from the Maasai people in Kenya and Tanzania of East Africa. They are non-nomadic pastoralists raising cattle. At the time the Johnsons visited, the Maasai believed themselves to be the owners of all cattle in the world.
Kpelie Mask
This 19th century Lo Society Kpelie face mask is from the Senufo in Côte d'Ivorie. The Kpelie face masks are worn in "face masquerades" at coming-of-age rituals and funeral ancestor rituals of the Lo Society. The name "Kpelie" literally translates to "dead face," but the symbolic meaning is "face of an ancestor."
Turkana Atubwa (food bowl)
This lightweight carved wooden bowl is a fine example of traditional household kitchenware often used by both the Turkana and the Saburu of Northern Frontier District of Kenya.
Osa’s Prize Bass Fishing Trophy
Known for her outdoorsman's prowess, Osa broke and set sportsman records on five continents. This trophy commemorates her catching the largest fish at the New England Museum of Natural History's Fourth Annual Fishing Tournament. Photos of Osa in the competition and with the trophy are housed in the museum's collection of personal photographs.
Turkana Slashing Bracelet
This type of bracelet has been traditionally worn for both symbolic and functional use in hunting ceremonies, rituals, and warfare. The outer leather guard is very important as it keeps the blade, which is often coated with poison, from accidentally injuring the wearer or other individuals in close proximity.
Turkana Headrest
Employing a mud and tallow mixture, the Turkana men spend a great deal of time sculpting their hair into elaborate and highly ornate styles and headrests such as this insure that their work is not undone by sleeping on the ground.
Martin’s Box Camera
One of only two cameras kept by the Johnsons, this #4 Screen Focus Model A Kodak was a sentimental favorite. Martin had marvelous cameras, with special lenses ground for him in England and Germany. Osa later donated manhy of these lenses to the U.S. government for use in reconnaissance missions in World War II.
South Seas House Post
This house post, one from a set of five from one home, was collected by Martin during his travels aboard the Snark with Jack and Chaarmian London. It was the feature aartifact at his travelogues and film showings at his own Snark Theater in Independence, Kansas.
Kpelie Mask
Bambara N'tomo Mask The three horned mask of the N'tomo society symbolizes that man contains a spirit composed of masculinity, impulsiveness, and desire. Masks with increasing numbers of horns symbolize various levels initiates have reached in attaining the knowledge of themselves as men.
Martin and Osa’s Pilot Licenses
The Johnsons' pilot licenses reside atop the map donated by their pilot and fellow Kansan, Vern Carstens. Carstens always said the map "was not good for much more than something to sit on" as there were no elevations given and Africa proved to be a very mountainous continent.
Martin’s Flying Goggles
Martin bought these for flight training in 1931. He and Osa took their lessons and earned their pilot licenses at the Chanute Municipal Airport, which was renamed the Martin Johnson Memorial Airport in 1935.
Maasai Head Dress
The Maasai people live in Kenya and Tanzania, East Africa. When they were visited by the Johnsons they believed that the Maasai owned all of the cattle in the world. They are non-nomadic people who are pastoralists and raise cattle. This head dress was worn by a Maasai man as he danced in traditional ceremonial dances.