"Growing Goodness": An Alaska Native Collection at Oberlin CollegeMain MenuMission Statement and Project ContributorsObject GalleryClick on the object title for more informationLife HistoryMapYup'ik Materials and SubsistenceIntroduction page for the Raw Materials and Subsistence chapterVirtual 3D Exhibit
Object 15
12019-12-13T19:51:04+00:00Alaina Helm707f7d845b33dec30c77d3f91278c0fd43eb2f4c111Here’s what Dr. Rosemary Ahtuangaruak has to say!plain2019-12-13T19:51:04+00:00Alaina Helm707f7d845b33dec30c77d3f91278c0fd43eb2f4c
2 cm wide x 11.5 cm long x 3.5 cm high Carved wood, sinew strap
Ungava Labrador, Quebec (Quebec Inuit or Labrador Inuit) c. 1884 Collector L. M. Turner Museum ID number: TUR.C1.af.0178
Snow goggles were used by all Arctic peoples to protect the wearer from “snow blindness,” the temporary blindness and severe pain that occurs when ultraviolet light is reflected off of snow and ice, burning one’s retinas. The goggles have long, narrow slits that block out the excess light while still providing a wide field of vision. The slits also help the wearer see better by sharpening and focusing their vision. Many snow goggles had more decoration, suggesting that these particular goggles are likely a “tourist” item, especially since they show no obvious signs of use. The goggles could have been sold to or made specifically for the collector.