Dance Knife Item Number: A2509 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Warrior dance knife, or baton in the form of Sisiutl. A flat wooden piece that has a central frontal head and a profile head on either side. The central head has two upward and outward curling horn-like appendages at the top. Each profile head has a neck with multi-coloured scales, rectangular teeth, and a wavy protruding tongue.
History Of Use
Carried as a wand or suspended from the ceiling during the War Dance. Sisiutl figured largely in Kwakwaka'wakw mythology and ceremonial life. It often appears on headdresses, belts, dishes, and other ritual objects.
Iconographic Meaning
Represents Sisiutl, a double-headed serpent, often called Lightning Snake, assistant to Winalagalis, the War Spirit. It was dangerous, powerful, and impervious to human weaponry.
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada
- Owned by Walter C. Koerner before April 8, 1976
- Received from Walter C. Koerner (Donor) on April 8, 1976
What
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Previous Owner
- Walter C. Koerner
- Received from
- Walter C. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
When
- Ownership Date
- before April 8, 1976
- Acquisition Date
- on April 8, 1976
Other
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 0336/0005