Soul Catcher Item Number: A2476 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Hollow tubular bone, somewhat flared at two open ends, which are cut to represent the open mouth of an animal. Eyes are carved above each mouth; incised designs indicate nostrils and gills. Two small holes at centre top of tube.
History Of Use
The oral tradition states that a soul catcher was made from the shin bone (femur) of a grizzly bear. It was worn suspended around the neck and used by the Halayt (shaman) to capture and return souls that had left the body, thus causing illness. Originally cedar bark plugs were used in the openings at either end to contain the spirits or souls, that had been captured to return to a host.
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada
- Owned by Walter C. Koerner before April 8, 1976
- Received from Walter C. Koerner (Donor) on April 8, 1976
What
- Name
- Soul Catcher
- Identification Number
- A2476
- Type of Item
- soul catcher
- Material
- bear bone ?
- Manufacturing Technique
- cut and carved
- Overall
- height 2.2 cm, width 21.2 cm, depth 3.9 cm
Who
- Culture
- Gitxsan ?
- Previous Owner
- Walter C. Koerner
- Received from
- Walter C. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
When
- Ownership Date
- before April 8, 1976
- Acquisition Date
- on April 8, 1976
Other
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 19
- Accession Number
- 0336/0066