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Headdress

Donor Michael R. Johnson

Date1880's

Mediumwood, hide thongs, red, blue, and black pigment

DimensionsOverall: 21.3 x 59.7 x 32 cm

ClassificationsDress and Adornment

Terms

Object numberNb1.390

DescriptionCedar ceremonial headdress, carved from one piece of cedar in the shape of Raven holding a Box of Day light in the beak. The bottom has been hollowed out and roughly finished to be worn on the head. Haida feather motif painted on the back wings with black and turquoise/blue paint. Dogfish shark crest design painted on the Raven's breast with red and blue paint; shark body continues along the rim that is under the Raven's wings, then ends in painted tail design togethor below the carved tail of the Raven. Two leather straps are attached to the interior with nails and repaired by screws. Both straps have the same number written on them, 89053. The number can also be found in large black numerals on the left side of the Raven's neck. An auction tag is attached to one strap with wire. The tag has the following information: "Date: December 22, 1883; Collector: J. Swan; Item: Head Dress; wooden Tribe: Haida; Location: Skidegate, Queen Charlotte Isl. BC (sic)" The headress has two fractures, one in the front and back along the rim.

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