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Description

Winalagalis hand puppet. Articulated male figure is somewhat skeletal, with leather joints at neck, hip, elbows, wrists and ankles; humanoid skulls at knee joints; pegged shoulder joints. Head: long strands of hair are inserted into holes drilled at top and back; green face has black brows, white brow line; slightly depressed eye area has white circular hole pupils in red; sharply curved nose has rounded red nostrils; white moustache-like area on red rounded upper lip, moveable lower jaw, quill teeth; circular red and black ears. Body: green ovoid with white crescent at pectorals, exposed ribs, red navel; hips are attached to rib cage with thread loops; penis on wooden extension is screwed to back of rib cage; scrotum on separate cords; rolled leather at top of each leg is inserted into hips; long wide feet have 2 sets of parallel lines indicating bones, green toenails; long arms, hands with green fingernails hang to knee level. Single strand of red beads around neck. The puppet's genitalia manipulates body movements through the use of cord and wire.

History Of Use

Puppets are referred to as dług̱we’(treasure) by the Kwakwaka'wakw, as are the theatrical dances in which they appear. The Kwakwaka'wakw have a fascinating history of puppetry, related to their well-known practice of potlatching and hosting ceremonial feasts. Winter potlatch performances are suffused with cultural teachings and supernatural content such as the coming of Winalagalis, the warrior. Dances and songs associated with Winalagalis include the Tuxw’id, which is performed by women with the power and rights to perform with the dlugwe’ treasures.

Narrative

Borrowed back by the artist in 1982 for performance at his potlatch in Alert Bay.

Iconographic Meaning

Winalagalis is a Kwakwaka'wakw war god. He comes from North (underworld) to winter with the Kwakwaka'wakw, and is the bringer and ruler of the Tseka (Winter Ceremonial). According to Boas, he is associated with the Tuxwid, Hawinalal, and Ma'maka dances.

Item History

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