Shakee.át Headdress Frontlet
Tlingit artist, Shakee.át Headdress Frontlet, late 19th century, copper, whale bone, abalone shells, feathers, sea lion whiskers, ermine skins, and cloth, Museum Purchase: Indian Collection Subscription Fund, Rasmussen Collection of Northwest Coast Indian Art, no known copyright restrictions, 48.3.440
This work is not currently on view.
- Title
Shakee.át Headdress Frontlet
- Artist
- Date
late 19th century
- Medium
copper, whale bone, abalone shells, feathers, sea lion whiskers, ermine skins, and cloth
- Dimensions (H x W x D)
6 5/8 in x 6 in x 6 5/8 in
- Collection Area
Native American Art
- Category
Northwest Coast
Ceremonial and Ritual Objects
- Object Type
headwear
- Cultural Group
Tlingit
- Credit Line
Museum Purchase: Indian Collection Subscription Fund, Rasmussen Collection of Northwest Coast Indian Art
- Accession Number
48.3.440
- Copyright
no known copyright restrictions
- Terms
- Place Made
Created in: Ketchikan
Distinct ornaments in this style are often called chief's headdresses because only persons of high status customarily wear them. In particular, the heads of noble houses giving potlatches are frequently seen in such garb during welcoming dances and speeches. Before use in a dance, the hollow center of the headdress is filled with bits of eagle down, which scatter about as the wearer moves, symbolizing goodwill toward his guests.
