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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Rectangular cradle with a high back. Puppet lies inside, and is painted with black and red paint on its face, chest and hands; fabric arms. Crest-painted cloth underneath puppet. Figure sits up as strings are pulled. Post sticks up at front (said to hold a revolving toy). Head of the figure turns from side to side. Sides and top painted with designs in black, red and green. (Part b is a piece of the cloth that has separated.)

History Of Use

Used in winter ceremonial performances.

Iconographic Meaning

Said to represent a child born of an incestuous marriage: hilhdzaqw. The parents lived in the woods, but the child returned to its village. According to Michael E. Harkin, the figure--a prerogative associated with the xa'apl (cradle dance)--is not an infant, but a pubescent girl (see Bodies of Enchantment, p. 63).

Narrative

U'dzistalis, a Kwakwaka'wakw man, married a Heiltsuk woman, who brought this privilege: k!is'u with her. "Brought from Bella Bella before I was born" -D. Roberts & D. Hawkins; "Mrs. J. Roberts was said to own the original" -B. Scow (1966).

Item History

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