This complete 1903 edition contains the famous chromolithographic plates of Hopi Kachinas painted by three Hopi artists. In addition to the report to the director, there are two papers of ethnological importance, Hopi Kachinas and Iroquoian Cosmology. The section, "Hopi Katcinas Drawn by Native Artists" by Jesse Walter Fewkes, relates to supernatural beings of the Hopi pantheon known as kachinas. It is profusely illustrated with 57 plates in lithographic color that are made from drawings by Indian artists well versed in their symbolism. Each plate includes a brief description and information on the religious customs and art of the Hopi. It also provides a list of the societies and festivals associated with kachinas. The last section, "Iroquoian Cosmology First Part" by J.N.B. Hewitt, provides an interesting and informative outline of three of five versions of Iroquoian cosmology- Onandaga, Seneca and Mohawk. Each version covers the legend of how "man came about" in three forms; the legend in the native language as told by a tribal elder, a "metaphorical" translation and a lyrical translation in a narrative form (in English). Six photographic plates portray tribal leaders. Map in back pocket is titled North America Bureau of American Ethnology Progress Map, (17.5 x 23.5"). 8vo, 360 pp, complete. Hardbound in original green cloth with embossed gilt vignette of an Indian chief on front cover and title on spine. This is perhaps the most colorful and sought-after of the BAE reports.

References:

Condition: A

Plates and text are clean and bright with light toning along sheet edges of plates. Map is very good with a few tiny spots in the image. Covers and binding show light shelf wear.