Erdan, a human held in enslaved status, resided within the city of Mos Espa located on the desert planet of Tatooine. This imposing figure, characterized by black hair and sun-kissed skin, bore a distinctive facial marking: one half painted white, the other black, signifying his status as property. During the year 32 BBY, Erdan was traversing the outskirts of Mos Espa when he encountered Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn, Queen Padmé Amidala, the Gungan Jar Jar Binks, and the astromech droid R2-D2 as the group made their way into the city. At that time, Erdan's outfit consisted of various brown tones. This ensemble included a pointed hat, a shawl, a shirt, pants, and boots.
Erdan's appearance occurred in the film Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace from the prequel trilogy, which had its release on May 19, 1999. The filming of the character's scenes took place in Chott el Gharsa, Tunisia, spanning from July 28 to July 29, 1997.
Within the established Star Wars canon as it stands, his identification was provided in the 2018 reference work titled Star Wars: The Complete Visual Dictionary, New Edition, authored by Pablo Hidalgo together with David West Reynolds. The character's name originated within the Star Wars Legends continuity, initially appearing in the reference book Star Wars: Episode I The Visual Dictionary, penned by West Reynolds and launched on May 26, 1999.