本书的目的是对原始艺术的若干基本特性进行分析研究。
我们以两条原则为依据——笔者认为研究原始民族生活的各个方面都应该以这两条原则为指导——一条是在所有民族中以及现代一切文化形式中，人们的思维过程是基本相同的；一条是一切文化现象都是历史发展结果。

This profoundly influential 1927 study analyzes the fundamental traits of primitive art, examining the symbolism and style of objects and of literature, music, and dance.
Features numbers of photographs, drawings, and diagrams of totem poles, baskets, masks, and other decorated items from the Indians of the American Northwest Coast.