Copper
Item number Nb3.1309 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.
Item number Nb3.1309 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.
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Traditional shield-shaped whole copper with a T-shaped raised design element that divides the bottom section in half and separates the top section from the bottom. The top portion has sides that flare outwards and a curved top edge. The top portion has a flat border surrounding a convex area decorated with a face. The drawing of the face and a series of parallel lines on the lower portion of the copper have been engraved through a blackened (lead) surface to reveal the copper underneath.
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.
Margaret Frank's grandson (by her daughter Mary), Andy Everson, thinks this copper was used for a grease potlatch.
The crest of the original owner is usually portrayed on the copper.
status; wealth; ceremonial; potlatch
This data has been provided to the RRN by the MOA: University of British Columbia. We've used it to provide the information on the Data tab.
Margaret Frank's grandson (by her daughter Mary), Andy Everson, thinks this copper was used for a grease potlatch.
The crest of the original owner is usually portrayed on the copper.
Traditional shield-shaped whole copper with a T-shaped raised design element that divides the bottom section in half and separates the top section from the bottom. The top portion has sides that flare outwards and a curved top edge. The top portion has a flat border surrounding a convex area decorated with a face. The drawing of the face and a series of parallel lines on the lower portion of the copper have been engraved through a blackened (lead) surface to reveal the copper underneath.
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.
status; wealth; ceremonial; potlatch
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