Copper Item Number: A2462 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Copper with sides that flare outwards slightly from the base and a top edge that has a rounded peak at the centre. A T-shaped ridge separates the top section from the bottom section and divides the bottom section in half. The top section is slightly convex and has a face incised on the upper portion by scraping away parts of a coating of dark paint (?). The eyes are delineated by two raised bumps.
History Of Use
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.
Cultural Context
status; wealth; ceremonial; potlatch
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
- Item Classes
- metalwork
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 35
- Accession Number
- 0336/0118