Chief Nah-Kane and his Wife

This photograph of an elderly Tlingit couple was identified by the Washington State Historical Society as Hoonah Chief Nah-Kane and his wife, name unknown. The chief is dressed in European clothes, a white shirt and vest. A woven striped robe is draped over one shoulder and he is holding a ceremonial rattle. He is wearing a conical crest hat with wide brim, decorated with totemic symbols. He has a nose ring. The wife is wearing a European style polka-dot dress. Over her shoulders is a button blanket. Her arms are folded at her lap. The couple are sitting in their home. Behind them are several chests with floral designs painted or inlaid on them. On top of one of the chests is a table clock. Sitting on top of two other chests are bedrolls.