Copper Item Number: A4343 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Copper that has been split and rejoined. Base has edges that flare slightly towards the bottom edge, as well as a raised ridge that runs vertically down the centre. The upper section has edges that flare towards the top curved edge. Both sections are riveted together with four strips of copper that serve as supports on the reverse. The copper has incised designs.

History Of Use

Coppers can be named, displayed, and transferred in accordance with ceremonial privilege and protocol. Historically, within potlatch economies, coppers would rise in value each time they were purchased, ceremonially presented, and strategically re-sold or given away. Among the Kwakwaka’wakw, coppers were sometimes cut or broken during rivalries. Some of these were riveted together and used again, their value then having to be re-established.

Cultural Context

status; wealth; ceremonial; potlatch

Narrative

Belonged to the great-grandfather of Ed Walkus. Thought to be over one hundred years old, in 1953. Referred to as the "Great Whale copper". Displayed at Dean Wilson's potlatch in Port Hardy in May 2012.

Item History

What

Name
Copper
Identification Number
A4343
Type of Item
copper
Material
copper metal
Manufacturing Technique
hammered, riveted and incised
Overall
height 79.0 cm, width 47.5 cm, depth 4.2 cm

Who

Culture
Kwakwaka'wakw
Previous Owner
Chief Edward Walkus
Received from
H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and Chief Edward Walkus (Seller)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
British Columbia, Canada
Collected in
Smith Inlet, British Columbia, Canada and Takus, British Columbia, Canada

When

Creation Date
during 1850
Ownership Date
before June 10, 1954
Acquisition Date
on June 10, 1954

Other

Item Classes
metalwork
Condition
fair
Accession Number
1976/0001