Kwakwaka'wakw (Qagyuhl), coastal British Columbia
1914
Cyanotype
Image: 8 in. high x 5.75 in. wide (20.32 cm x 14.61 cm)
Provenance: Christopher Cardozo collection
This cyanotype by Edward S. Curtis depicts a Qagyuhl Sisiutl mask figure, photographed in 1914. The Sisiutl is a powerful double-headed serpent being in Kwakwaka'wakw ceremonial tradition, closely associated with transformation, protection, and supernatural power. The figure is shown surrounded by cedar boughs, with the mask emerging from the dense natural setting.
The blue tonal range of the cyanotype gives the image a distinct photographic character, different from Curtis's more commonly seen photogravures and silver prints. The reverse reportedly bears markings in Curtis's own hand, adding documentary interest to the print. From the Christopher Cardozo collection, the work is connected to one of the best-known modern collections of Curtis material.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Kwakwaka'wakw (Qagyuhl), coastal British Columbia
1914
Cyanotype
Image: 8 in. high x 5.75 in. wide (20.32 cm x 14.61 cm)
Provenance: Christopher Cardozo collection
This cyanotype by Edward S. Curtis depicts a Qagyuhl Sisiutl mask figure, photographed in 1914. The Sisiutl is a powerful double-headed serpent being in Kwakwaka'wakw ceremonial tradition, closely associated with transformation, protection, and supernatural power. The figure is shown surrounded by cedar boughs, with the mask emerging from the dense natural setting.
The blue tonal range of the cyanotype gives the image a distinct photographic character, different from Curtis's more commonly seen photogravures and silver prints. The reverse reportedly bears markings in Curtis's own hand, adding documentary interest to the print. From the Christopher Cardozo collection, the work is connected to one of the best-known modern collections of Curtis material.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
