Native American, Pacific Northwest, Haida (or possibyl Tlingit), ca. early to mid 20th century CE. Finely carved from alder wood in high and bas relief, a vintage frontlet of an overall round form, depicting a figure with a human head as well as an anthropomorphic visage upon his chest - holding both hands upward. Adding to the beauty of this piece are the iridescent abalone shell inlays in the eyes of both faces, the teeth of the uppermost (head), and the rectangular inlays embellishing the circular surround. The wood is painted in a beautiful combination of red and black (characteristic of the Haida) as well as green and tawny orange (which may indicate Tlingit influence). Chiefs of all the Pacific North Coast tribes possessed an ensemble of regalia that denoted their status, including a Chilkat blanket, leggings, an apron, Raven rattles (or a Raven drum), sometimes a shield-shaped copper plate, and a special frontlet like this example. Size: 5.5" in diameter (14 cm); 7.375" H (18.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection, acquired from an antique store in Medford, Oregon, USA in 1972

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#133639

First rectangular inlay on the left of round surround was broken into two pieces and reattached. All other inlays are intact. Paint has faded and worn a bit, but is in overally very good condition. Old inventory label with "130" on verso.