Drum Item Number: Ni51 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Broad rounded three-legged drum has hide stretched and pegged around top. Long strip of twisted hide connects pegs and is wrapped once around each peg. At upper rim, held by twisted hide are three bamboo sticks with spiral painted notched ends, yarn wrappings around shaft have feathers, miniature bow, and animal snare. Burnt hole on either side and burnt line figures around sides include the following: two plants, snake, reptile, fire ?, and deer.

History Of Use

Used in ritual curing ceremonies by a shaman. A fire was lit under the drum, smoke would emit from the holes at sides, soot would be rubbed on the ailing person's forehead, wrists, feet or cheeks.

Cultural Context

contemporary; tourist art; ritual

Narrative

The Wixáritari are known to the larger world as the Huichol, however that is not the name they use to refer to themselves.