Edward S. Curtis
(1868 - 1952)
The Piki Maker - Hopi
hand colored silver gelatin
signed in negative lower left: Curtis

This image was definitely on of Curtis’ favorites, as he printed it in numerous photographic processes. Showing a Hopi woman making Piki, which is a corn based flat bread that is baked in colored sheets of paper-like thinness. This is a relatively unusual hand-colored example on silver gelatin.
13 7/8 x 10.93 in. (35.24 x 27.78 cm.)
Edward S. Curtis Studio, Seattle
Private Collection(s)
The Christopher G. Cardozo Women's Collection, 2005

Literature:
The North American Indian (1907-1930), Portfolio 12, Plate 432.
The North American Indian (1907-1930), Portfolio 1, Plate #1.
Native Nations, Bulfinch Press, 1993, p. 117.
Sacred Legacy: Edward S. Curtis and the North American Indian, Simon & Schuster, 2000, p. 86.
Edward S. Curtis: The Women, Bulfinch Press, 2005, p. 9, 88.
Edward S. Curtis One Hundred Masterworks, Delmonico Books/Prestel Publishing, 2015, p. 89.

This print is in very good to excellent condition overall. There are minor pinholes at the corners. There is a minor to moderate tear at the lower right margin edge that has been stabilized with mending tape. There is minor surface rubbing at the print margin edges, only visible in strong, direct light. VERSO: There is minor discoloration of the print verso. The print recto is not affected.

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