Edward S. Curtis

The Catcher (The Snake Priest)

1906
Category: 
The Snake Dance, one of the most revered rituals of the southwestern Hopi tribe, is performed in gratitude for the fruits of the earth, and in hope of future prosperity. Sixteen days of preparation precede the ceremony: snakes are gathered, quieted, de-fanged and washed, so they can be held between the dancers' teeth. Here, Curtis has photographed the ritualistic washing of the snakes. Initially a private occasion, the Snake Dance attracted such interest from non-Aboriginal people that its audiences increased to uncontrollable numbers, and public access was ultimately prohibited. The blurred background and informal composition of this image enhance its authenticity and intimacy, and suggest furtiveness on the part of the photographer.
Title
The Catcher (The Snake Priest)
Date
1906
Medium
Photograph
Materials
gelatin silver print
Dimensions
16.5 x 21.5 cm; image: 15.5 x 20.7 cm
Nationality
American
Credit line
Purchased 1978
Accession number
21419