Soul Catcher

Item number A2476 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Description

Hollow tubular bone, somewhat flared at two open ends, which are cut to represent the open mouth of an animal. Eyes are carved above each mouth; incised designs indicate nostrils and gills. Two small holes at centre top of tube.

History Of Use

The oral tradition states that a soul catcher was made from the shin bone (femur) of a grizzly bear. It was worn suspended around the neck and used by the Halayt (shaman) to capture and return souls that had left the body, thus causing illness. Originally cedar bark plugs were used in the openings at either end to contain the spirits or souls, that had been captured to return to a host.