Nez Perce
ca. 1836 – 1874
Interpretive text from Nimiipuu Tribal Committee:
"Constructed out of an entire deer head, completely skinned and cured and decorated with glass beads. This item is somewhat enigmatic, but typically items constructed out of an entire skin of an animal or in the shape of an animal, is related to an individual's weey'ekin or 'guardian spirit.' The specific intent or meaning would be only known and revealed to the individual who has obtained this connection with the spirit, who bestowed its gifts upon the supplicant."
Hide, sinew, glass beads. L 39, C 46 cm
Nez Perce National Historical Park, NEPE 8754