C.D. Hoy, Mathilda Joe, c.1910

Hoy’s photographs are divided almost exactly in thirds in relation to the representation of Indigenous, Chinese, and Caucasian people, indicating not only the then incredible diversity of frontier regions like the Cariboo, but also that each of these cultural groups felt equally comfortable beneath the levelling gaze of this Chinese man and his camera. This dignified portrait depicts Mathilda Joe, wife of the Hereditary Chief of ʔEsdilagh, a woman who was known as an excellent hunter who provided meat for the entire community.