Thunder-Bird Charm (Piesikan)

National Museum of Natural History

E395314-0

From card: "Gift of Edward Namegus, 1932, who had inherited it from his grandfather. Oblong black velvet and sateen on opposite side of a semi-stiff inside, beaded around edge in red and green. Most of front covered with large solid, hour-glass shaped design in white and a few blue beads, and square arch at top in same colors. Small floral spray in pink beads at each side. Supposed to be Thunder-bird design, gotten from a dream, very sacred, kept hidden, worn around neck (by a ribbon) mainly in bear hunting."


  • Type of Item charm
  • Culture Montagnais, Rupert House, Cree

  • Field Collector Rev. John M. Cooper
  • Received from Catholic University Of America

  • Made in Quebec
  • Collected in Quebec

  • Acquisition Date on July 6, 1956

  • Accession Number 211312