Eye-Shade
Date1825
MediumWood, cord
DimensionsObject/Work: 40 x 200 x 90 mm
ClassificationsCostume
Terms
Object numberC02647
DescriptionEskimo eye shade or "Ittee-Yaga". Purchased by Richard Cuming in 1834 from the sale of objects collected by Frederic Beechey in his expedition with Sir John Franklin to the Bering Strait in the ship the "Blossom" in 1825.Eye-shades like this had a primarily protective function, reducing the light and snow that could affect the eye while hunting or working outdoors. The Inuit recognized that certain light levels in an icy, white environment could damage vision over a long period of time or even render an individual temporarily blind.
Arctic snow-goggles were developed independently of Western influence, and most used eye-shades and visors to help prevent this loss of sight. This eye-shade appears to be a combination of protective goggles and a protective visor. Sealing wax has been added to the outer ends of the eye slits, to customise the size of the eye slits for the individual wearer.
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