Description

Large horn ladle.

Longer Description

Large horn ladle carved into the shape of a bird; possibly a raven. The scoop is wide and deep coming to a slight point at the end. The handle of the ladle tapers to a carved bird's head which is incised with eyes, beak decoration, and rings around the neck.

Research Notes

The following information comes from Haida delegates who worked with the museum's collection in September 2009 as part of the project “Haida Material Culture in British Museums: Generating New Forms of Knowledge”:
This ladle was viewed alongside other horn and wood spoons on Wednesday Sept 9, 2009. Delegates identified this is a scoop, possibly used by a chief to serve food from a bowl. This utensil was distinguished as a ladle, scoop or serving spoon based on its larger size. [CAK 19/04/2010]

Primary Documentation

Accession book entry (for 1891.49.57 - .61): 'From Rev. Ch. Harrison, 80 Halton Rd, Canonbury Sq. N. Collection of Haida objects collected by him.... - [1 of] 5 horn ladles. £45. [Purchase price includes 1891.49.1-110]

No additional information on catalogue cards. [JC 4 9 1996]

Written on object: 'Haida, C.Harrison Coll. Purchased 1891'. [NM 3/96]

Related Documents File - The Haida Project Related Documents File contains video of research sessions and interviews with Haida delegates from September 2009 as part of the project ‘Haida Material Culture in British Museums: Generating New Forms of Knowledge'. It also includes post-visit communications that discuss object provenance. For extensive photographic, video, and textual records documenting the Haida research visit as a whole, including but not limited to preparations of objects for handling, travel logistics, British Museum participation, transcribed notes from research sessions and associated public events held at PRM, see the Haida Project Digital Archive, stored with the Accessions Registers. Original hand-written notes taken during research sessions have been accessioned into the Manuscripts collection, in addition to select other materials. [CAK 02/06/2010]