Dish Item Number: 1929.157 from the MAA: University of Cambridge
Description
Low oval dish carved with the head of a halibut at one end and raven head at the other. The mouth of the halibut, and its fins are clearly visible. The edge of the dish and the halibut' s eyes are inlaid with abalone shell.; Good
Context
The original European tribal names and, where possible, current tribal names have both been given in separate GLT fields.; There is no trace of grease on this bowl, and the low design suggests it was used as a plate for other foods. In keeping with grease dishes the crests on the low bowl are recognizable, therefore reducing the potential for exchange but increasing its display potential. Similar to spoons and bowls the use of objects decorated with crests demarcated potlatches and feasts as events removed from everyday existence.The crests carved on objects were possibly those of the owner representing a tangible connection between the lineage and the economic resources consumed during the feasting. The setting of the abalone into the rim of the dish, together with the incomplete staining, suggest that this bowl may be an artefake , made to resemblea Northwest Coast bowl. (G.Crowther).; Collected by: ?Watts.J.C in ?1889
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada
- Received from J.C. Watts during 1929
Who
- Culture
- Northwest Coast
- Received from
- J.C. Watts
Where
- Holding Institution
- MAA: University of Cambridge
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
When
- Acquisition Date
- during 1929
Other
- Keyword
- Food Preparation; Ceremonial Objects; containers