Garrick Mallery 
Pictographs of the North American Indians 

Garrick Mallery’s ‘Pictographs of the North American Indians’ is a groundbreaking exploration of the visual language of indigenous peoples. Mallery meticulously examines the intricate pictorial symbols used by various Native American tribes, shedding light on their cultural significance and historical context. The book delves into the intricate details of these symbols, offering a comprehensive look at the art of communication among indigenous communities. Mallery’s scholarly approach to the subject presents a wealth of information for readers interested in anthropology, linguistics, and Native American studies. His attention to detail and deep understanding of the subject matter make this book an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of indigenous art and communication. His thorough analysis of pictographs provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of North American Indian tribes. Overall, ‘Pictographs of the North American Indians’ is a must-read for those interested in Native American history and art, offering a unique perspective on the visual language of indigenous peoples.

About the author

Garrick Mallery was a distinguished American ethnologist and philologist, particularly recognized for his extensive work with Native American cultures. Born on April 25, 1831, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Mallery had a diverse career, initially serving in the Union Army during the Civil War before turning his attention to legal practice and eventually ethnography. His significant transition to ethnology was facilitated by his appointment to the U.S. Geological and Geographical Survey of the Territories, allowing him to meld his legal background with a burgeoning interest in anthropological matters. Mallery became a prominent member of the Bureau of American Ethnology at the Smithsonian Institution where he worked alongside fellow ethnologists like John Wesley Powell. He devoted much of his research to the study of Native American sign language and symbology, which culminated in his pivotal work, ‘Pictographs of the North American Indians’ (1881). This book offered an in-depth exploration of the intricate and varied systems of graphical representation utilized by various Indigenous tribes, highlighting their cultural significance and complex meanings. Mallery’s scholarly approach to ethnography significantly contributed to the understanding of the symbolic language among Native American communities and cemented his legacy as a thoughtful interpreter of indigenous symbolism and communication. His contributions to the fields of ethnology and anthropology were substantial and remain valued for their empathy and scholarly rigor.