Whistle

Item number 25.0/263 from the The Burke: University of Washington.

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The presence of supernatural power is expressed in some of the Tseyka performances by the sound of whistles. The hamatsa in particular is known by his whistles, which his attendants blow whenever the power of Bakhbakwalanooksiwey becomes strong in him. His first approach to the village after his long absence, supposedly at the house of the cannibal spirit, is heralded by the eerie sound. Whistles are held secret and are never intended to be seen in use. (Holm, Crooked Beak of Heaven, 1972)