Shamanism

Artifacts and artworks from shamanism, embodying the spiritual practices and ritual objects used by shamans to connect with the divine across ancient and indigenous cultures.

Young Hairy Wolf, Crow portrait photograph, c. 1905

Young Hairy Wolf, Crow (c. 1905 CE)

Documents Edward S. Curtis Ethnographic Photography

Young Hairy Wolf was born around 1849 and died in 1919. He served as a medicine man—a spiritual leader responsible for healing rituals, visions, and traditional medical practices.

Chinese bronze ding tripod vessel, Shang dynasty period, 1250–1046 BCE

Ding Tripod (1250-1046 BCE)

Antiquities Asia Ceremonial & Religious China

This Ding tripod not only served practical purposes but also embodied transcendent concepts, acting as a symbolic messenger from otherworldly realms, captivating us with its blend of artistry and enigma.

Hastobiga, Navaho medicine man, photogravure on paper, 1904

Hastobiga, Navajo Medicine Man (1904 CE)

Photography Documents Edward S. Curtis Ethnographic

For this portrait, Hastobiga’s ceremonial attire—feather-adorned headdress, body paint, and ritual rattles—suggests Curtis collaborated with him to highlight the sacred role of the hatałii.

Isthmian gold pendant figure with deer antlers, Panama region, 400–700 CE.

Figure with Deer Antlers Pendant (400–700 CE)

Antiquities Ceremonial & Religious Isthmian culture Mesoamerica

This 5th–8th century CE gold pendant from Panama or Venado Beach region depicts a hybrid male figure with deer, feline, and serpent features.