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For internal use only
On Display: House - Centreville Room
Looking glass or mirror (Hand mirror)
Chippewa (Ojibwe) Culture, Potawatomi Culture, Odawa
1750-1850
Description
This lightweight maple wood mirror with a circular pierced handle decorated with triangular edges was believed to be of New England or European manufacture when it was acquired. Closer examination of the reflexive carving of the frame's edges suggests another source. It may hold imagery of the Underwater Panther deity known to many Great Lakes region Native American cultures. At the top two panther heads appear to be oriented mirror-like with noses touching and each has a long undulating tail suggested by the frame’s scalloped sides. Although this interpretation needs further research, it is provocative to consider that the maker chose to link the powerful water spirit with the water-like reflective properties of a hand mirror.
Category
Wood (other)
Creator/Artist/Maker
Chippewa (Ojibwe) Culture (Possible maker)
Place of Origin
Great Lakes; United States or Canada; North America
Materials
- Maple, soft
- Glass
Museum Object Number
1966.1357
Credit Line/Donor
Bequest of Henry Francis du Pont
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Complete Details
Object Number
1966.1357
Object Name
Looking glass or mirror (Hand mirror)
Category
Wood (other)
Creator (Role)
Chippewa (Ojibwe) Culture (Possible maker); Potawatomi Culture (Possible maker); Odawa (Possible maker)
Place of Origin
Great Lakes; United States or Canada; North America
Origin Notes
Likely made by a Native American aritist in the Great Lakes region.
Date
1750-1850
Subject(s)
- Native American
Materials
- Maple, soft
- Glass
Techniques
- Carved
Dimensions (inches)
3.12 (W) x 9.12 (L)
Dimensions (centimeters)
7.94 (W) x 23.18 (L)