Mat Needle Item Number: A4366 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mat needle with long narrow shaft, triangular cross section, and one pointed end. The pointed end widens and then narrows, creating a diamond shape. A large eye is cut through the other end, and the wood has split slightly through the middle above the eye. The wood is a yellow brown colour.
History Of Use
Mat needles are used for sewing together, and crimping, mats made from cat-tail and tule reeds.
Specific Techniques
According to Dr. Michael Kew, Coast Salish mat needles were normally made from the wood of a plant called ocean spray or ironwood. They were made by splitting the vertical stalk to create two needles, flat on one side and rounded on the other.
Cultural Context
domestic; plant technology
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada before 1934
- Collected between 1893 and 1934
- Owned by George Henry Raley before November 1948
- Received from H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and George Henry Raley (Seller) during November 1948
What
Who
- Culture
- Coast Salish
- Previous Owner
- George Henry Raley
- Received from
- H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and George Henry Raley (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- before 1934
- Collection Date
- between 1893 and 1934
- Ownership Date
- before November 1948
- Acquisition Date
- during November 1948
Other
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 3
- Accession Number
- 1960/0427