Harropian Books

[Ktunaxa] Kootenay Indians at St. Eugene Mission Photograph

Unknown Photographer

St. Eugene Mission, BC: n.p. Mounted Photograph. While resembling an uncommon, but familiar postcard image (we have seen similar looking B&W and colored postcards), this 4.75 x 6.75 mounted photograph not only has more subjects (e.g. the woman on the far right carrying a baby on her back) with the subjects located in different positions, but also shows all of the men, women and children with ceremonial white face paint - which is not apparent in either of the two similar, reproduced postcard images. These now visible facial adornments communicate with a striking visualization, adding both depth and meaning to the image. The photo is faded w. some minor damage to the emulsion along parts of the upper edge and is captioned in the negative "Kootenay Indians St. Eugene Mission". The photo is mounted onto an uncredited, photographer's mount (trimmed w. some stains recto and verso) and has previously been hinged onto a beveled white mat for framing, measuring 7 x 8.75. Two tipis, a cabin and other material culture items surround the sitters as they pose for the photographer. Very Good. Item #5463

An intriguing historical image, circa 1900, but perhaps earlier as it was found with a sister Ktunaxa Nation image, that dates to circa 1897.

Price: $550.00 CAD  other currencies