Power Board Item Number: Nb3.1353 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

A long rectangular board made of dark brown-coloured cedar in an openwork design tapering from the widest end. Perforations with coloured, bevelled edges are spaced down the board's length. Yellow-brown openings are three pairs of varying sized elongated ovals, and two ovals, each with a flaring extended triangle shape out one side. These two are arranged lengthwise on the board between pairs of ovals. Last element is recessed red ovoid with perforated eye with dark brown pupil in centre. Shining transparent flakes scattered randomly over board's surface, some of which are loose. Looped through to the back are two sets of wire at the corners of the widest end, one set of which holds a short carved wooden tube.

History Of Use

'Power board': glittering mica attached gives a rare, powerful quality. Treasure of the Tokwit, female War Dancer in the ritual, Winalagalis. When she conjures up the double-headed serpent, Sisiutl, from the ground, a board rises up and when struck, it separates into two Sisiutl forms. The Sisiutl was a frequently used design on duntsiks.

Iconographic Meaning

Appears to represent Sisiutl?

Cultural Context

ceremonial

Item History

What

Name
Power Board
Identification Number
Nb3.1353
Type of Item
board
Material
metal, mica mineral, paint and cedar wood
Manufacturing Technique
cut, nailed, painted and carved
Overall
height 68.1 cm, width 17.8 cm, depth 3.8 cm

Who

Culture
Kwakwaka'wakw
Previous Owner
Fred Wastell
Received from
Fred Wastell (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
British Columbia, Canada

When

Creation Date
before 1930
Collection Date
during 1925
Ownership Date
before February 7, 1983
Acquisition Date
on February 7, 1983

Other

Condition
fair
Current Location
Case 24
Accession Number
0851/0011