Dowry board Item Number: A7281 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Thick wooden board with faint black eye design outlined with sea otter teeth to form a face.
History Of Use
Previously referred to as a "ceremonial box lid", however informants (A. Cranmer, et. al, 1970) identified it as a dowry board, for distribution at potlatches, e.g., a wedding celebration.
Iconographic Meaning
Gixsistala: having teeth all around.
Narrative
Found in a cave or rock cavity on the banks of the Nimpkish River by Indigenous fishermen. It was wrapped in cedar bark blankets or mats, which fell apart on handling.
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada between 1850 and 1955
- Collected in 'Yalis (Alert Bay), British Columbia, Canada during 1955
- Owned by Edward F. Meade before July 1960
- Received from H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and Edward F. Meade (Seller) during July 1960
What
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Previous Owner
- Edward F. Meade
- Received from
- H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and Edward F. Meade (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
- Collected in
- 'Yalis (Alert Bay), British Columbia, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- between 1850 and 1955
- Collection Date
- during 1955
- Ownership Date
- before July 1960
- Acquisition Date
- during July 1960
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 18
- Accession Number
- 0026/0003