Charm Item Number: 1930.1134 from the MAA: University of Cambridge
Description
Whalebone carved into the shape of a fish, very possibly a salmon. The dorsal fin has been shaped into the beak of a bird, possibly an eagle. There is a hole drilled into the fish' s back which enables it to be hung horizontally. The underside is largely uncarved except for the backs of the fins, and the eye and beak of the aforementioned bird.; Good
Context
The original European tribal names and, where possible, current tribal names have both been given in separate GLT fields.; This object could possibly have been used by a shaman, as a charm, or worn as a personal ornament. It is similar in shape to some Kwakiutl cardboard fish which were attached to cedar bark head rings, illustrated in A.Hawthorn' s Kwakiutl Art (1979, Douglas McIntyre, Vancouver), page 158, fig.291- 293.(G.Crowther).
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada
- Received from Dr. W.L.H. Duckworth during 1930
What
- Name
- Charm
- Identification Number
- 1930.1134
- Type of Item
- charm
- Material
- whale bone
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw ?
- Received from
- Dr. W.L.H. Duckworth
Where
- Holding Institution
- MAA: University of Cambridge
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
When
- Acquisition Date
- during 1930
Other
- Keyword
- Art; Ceremonial Objects; Magic and Religion; Personal Adornment