Tlingit Button Robe

• Main Author: Aspen, Alberta J.
• Other Authors: Given to the University of Washington Libraries by Norman Jenisch Rose and Louise R. Rose
• Language: unknown
• Subjects: Buttons; tlingit; Alaska
• Online Access: http://cdm16786.contentdm.oclc.org:80/cdm/ref/collection/p16786coll14/id/93

Alberta J. Aspen (Tlingit - Raven of the Dog Salmon Clan). About the Artist: Ms. Aspen creates both traditional and ceremonial clothing. She also teaches classes on regalia making. Following in the traditions of her ancestors, she incorporates modern sewing techniques to create the beautiful traditional look of the garments. Tlingit Indians have for generations created ceremonial garments decorated with shells, beads, buttons, and family crests. The crest design identifies the family and clan to which a person belongs. The most distinguished and recognizable ceremonial garment is the Button Robe made of dark wool with red borders and rows of pearl buttons surrounding the family crests. Tlingit Indians of Southeast Alaska are united by a clan system pre-established by that of a child's mother when born. There are two main divisions; the Raven and the Eagle, with different sub-clans representing different groups of clan houses where family live. This wall hanging is a replica of a traditional Button Robe with a Raven crest design and Mother of Pearl Buttons around the borders, the fabric is 100% wool. The Raven crest design is by Tlingit artist Michael Beasley. Alberta may be reached through e-mail at [e-mail]. Michael Lee Beasley (Tlingit - Raven of the Coho Clan). Mr. Beasley graduated from the University of Washington with a BFA in Metal design in 1987. An active Journeyman artist since 1987, his focus has been the study and implementation of classic Tlingit art forms. This complements his cultural Tlingit heritage inherited from his mother, Dorothy. "I am always a student and am challenged with different mediums from wood to precious metals of copper, silver and gold." Among Mr. Beasley's artworks are totem poles, masks, canoes, jewelry, limited edition prints and fabric designs. Mr. Beasley lives and works in Alaska where he owns and operates Beasley's Art Gallery with his twin brother who is also an artist. He may be reached through e-mail at [e-mail]