Evolution in Art: As Illustrated by the Life-histories of Designs

Name: Evolution in Art: As Illustrated by the Life-histories of Designs
Author: Alfred C. Haddon

By Alfred C. Haddon

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Archaeology & Anthropology Art

About This Book

This work examines the development and variation of decorative design across cultures, using surveys of Pacific and New Guinea ornament as primary examples. It traces how patterns arise from transformations of materials and forms — including skeuomorphs, physicomorphs, biomorphs, and heteromorphs — and considers functional motives such as aesthetic expression, communication, status display, magic, and religious symbolism. Regional case studies, typological illustrations, and comparative geographic and biological reasoning support a proposed scientific method for studying decorative art and its distribution.

About the Author

Alfred C. Haddon

Alfred C. Haddon was a prominent figure in the field of anthropology and is known for his extensive contributions to the study of human cultures and societies. His work often explored the intersections of art, culture, and history, as seen in his notable book "Evolution in Art: As Illustrated by the Life-histories of Designs." Haddon also delved into the practices and beliefs of various cultures, exemplified in his writings such as "Head-hunters, black, white, and brown" and "Magic and Fetishism." His scholarly pursuits helped shape the understanding of anthropology during his time, making him a significant contributor to the discipline.