A forgotten glimpse into the 1931 Matto Grosso expedition's archaeological field work
In short: This archival footage captures a candid moment between researcher Vincenzo Petrullo and expedition funder R. Fenimore Johnson. It reveals the behind-the-scenes reality of the 1931 Matto Grosso expedition, showcasing the archaeological sites and artifacts that ultimately did not make it into the final documentary film.
The outtake shows Vincenzo Petrullo, representing the University of Pennsylvania, guiding R. Fenimore Johnson through excavation trenches near a Brazilian village. The footage highlights their interaction as Petrullo explains his findings, which include large clay vessels. A notable detail captured in the clip is the pair examining a beaded necklace and a seashell, a discovery that remains curious given the site's significant distance from the ocean.
While these scenes were filmed alongside the production of the 1931 feature 'Matto Grosso the Great Brazilian Wilderness,' they were excluded from the final cut. The footage serves as a rare, unedited look at the expedition's archaeological efforts and the relationship between the academic lead and the project's benefactor.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Matto Grosso: Outtakes (1931)
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/history-matto-grosso-outtakes-1931.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Archaeology · More in History · Latest · A–Z · All topics
