Institute for Biodiversity Science and Sustainability

CAS Anthropology Collections Database


Catalog Number CAS 0370-0501C   CAS 0370-0501C; Figurine (man)
Category Carvings
Object Name Figurine (man)
Culture Navajo
Global Region North America
Country USA
State/Prov./Dist. Arizona
County Apache
Other Geographic Data Community: Chinle area
Maker's Name Clitso Dedman (ca. 1875-1953)
Date of Manufacture ca. 1935-1945
Collection Name Elkus Collection (Native American)
Materials Wood; Commercial paint; Dyed chicken feathers; Wire
Description Hand-carved 3-dimensional standing figure of Navajo man impersonating male yeibichai dancer at ceremony for female patient (CAS 0370-0501B), accompanied by female dancer (CAS 0370-0501D) and Talking God (CAS 0370-0501A); Body is painted white and he wears blue head mask with 2 eagle plumes and green collar ruff, turquoise necklace, bracelets, rings, and concho belt, green kilt, dark blue leggings with red garters, and brown moccasins; He carries red and green feathers in left hand and green feathers and gourd rattle in right hand; All details are carved and painted except feathers in hands and tips of eagle plumes on mask which are actual chicken feathers; "Clitso" is printed in pencil on soles of both feet.
Dimensions (cm) Height = 28.8, Width = 8.7, Depth = 6.3