"FRECKLED FACE," an Arapaho Indian 1898

This is a pencil of "Freckled Face," an Arapaho Indian. Photographer Frank A. Rinehart (1862-1928) as were most of the other photos used to draw from in this collection took the photo used for reference. The photograph was taken in the year 1898. A beautiful woman in her own right, "Freckled Face's" ceremonial cape is very unique in the fact that is covered with elk teeth. The eyeteeth from an elk are one of the very few sources of ivory in the world. There are over 225 teeth that are visible in this "pencil," meaning that there are probably well over 500 teeth sewed to her cape. The ivories from an elk are still highly desirable and collectable for ornate jewelry and other uses.

One other little side note here, Go to the zoom of "Freckle Face." Take a close look at her right ear. She was wearing what looks like a Christian cross there. Very interesting.