Rattle

This rattle depicts a grinning mountain spirit, potentially that of a bear. The spirit would act as the intercessor for the human figure found between the ears. The rattle represents the relationship between the two and how the owner would depend on the spirit for strength and guidance.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Rattle
  • Date: 19th century
  • Geography: British Columbia, Canada
  • Culture: Native American (Skittagetan or Haida)
  • Medium: Wood, pebbles, polychrome
  • Dimensions: Overall: 7.6 x 20.3cm (3 x 8in.)
  • Classification: Idiophone-Shaken-rattle
  • Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
  • Object Number: 89.4.616
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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