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Description

Rectangular-shaped rattle with bear's face carved on one side and a raven design on the other. Lines delineating the bear's ears, eyes, nostrils, mouth and chin are engraved into the surface. The bear's mouth is oval-shaped with eight teeth visible. Traces of white paint are present within the grooves of the teeth. Black paint has been applied to the muzzle area and brow region of the bear's face. Black paint is also applied to the sides of the rectangular rattle, but not the handle. The handle, like the high relief areas of the rattle, is stained a dark brown colour. The raven depicted on the opposite side is in a seated position with wing extended. The wing has five feathers, while the tail which curves slightly upwards has three. Black and white pigment highlights the engraved areas of the raven also.

History Of Use

This rattle may have been made for sale. In general, however, rattles are used in cleansing ceremonies and usually can only be used by those who own the rights and priviledges associated with a specific rattle. The ceremonies often mark a significant occasion or rite of passage, for example a naming ceremony, marriage, memorial potlatch, etc.

Iconographic Meaning

The bird depicted on one side is a raven. It can be identified as such by its long straight beak with a blunt tip. The animal depicted on the other side is a bear - identified by its ears, flaring nostrils and conspicuous teeth (see Stewart 1979:43). Guardian spirit bears are associated with skill at hunting, while ravens confer skill at dancing.