This complete 1903 edition contains the famous chromolithographic plates of Hopi Kachinas painted by three Hopi artists. In addition to the report to the director, there are two papers of ethnological importance, "Hopi Kachinas" and "Iroquoian Cosmology." The section, "Hopi Katcinas Drawn by Native Artists" by Jesse Walter Fewkes, relates to supernatural beings of the Hopi pantheon known as kachinas. It is profusely illustrated with 63 plates in lithographic color that are made from drawings by Indian artists well versed in their symbolism. Each plate includes a brief description and information on the religious customs and art of the Hopi. It also provides a list of the societies and festivals associated with kachinas. The last section, "Iroquoian Cosmology First Part" by J.N.B. Hewitt, provides an interesting and informative outline of three of five versions of Iroquoian cosmology- Onandaga, Seneca, and Mohawk. Each version covers the legend of how "man came about" in three forms; the legend in the native language as told by a tribal elder, a "metaphorical" translation, and a lyrical translation in a narrative form (in English). Six photographic plates portray tribal leaders. Map in back pocket is titled North America Bureau of American Ethnology Progress Map, (17.5 x 23.5"). 8vo, 360 pp, complete. Hardbound in original green cloth with embossed gilt vignette of an Indian chief on front cover and title on spine. This is perhaps the most colorful and sought-after of the BAE reports.

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Condition: B+

The Hopina plates are clean and bright with light marginal toning and dampstaining in the lower margins. The dampstaining enters the photographic portraits in the back of the book with some associated abrasions (from the pages sticking together at one point). Folding map is near fine with just a hint of toning. The text has pleasant light toning with light dampstaining in the bottom margin throughout. Covers are dampstained with light shelf wear and bumped corners.