NORTHWEST COAST TLINGIT SHAMAN'S RAVEN RATTLE

Origin: Northwest Coast, Tlingit or Tsimshian People     (Provenance: From an old California collection)

Period/Date:  Circa 1900

Materials:  Wood, Polychrome Paint, Seal gut or skin binding

Dimensions:  Length 13.25"  (33.5 cm),  Width 3 5/8"  (9.5 cm) 

Description:   This raven rattle was likely made for "self-use" and is presented on a custom metal stand.  Although it is not as refined as an early 19th century example it is traditionally carved in everyway and is a priced at a fraction of the cost.  It is constructed of two pieces of wood and joined with pegs in the handle. There are remnant pieces of skin binding on the handle which once covered the pegs.  There is a piece of inserted reed projecting from the Frog's mouth into the mouth of the Shaman.  The Raven holds a dark sun in its mouth which is about to be spit into the sky to illuminate the world.   It is in very good condition and shows obvious wear and use having acquired a mellow brown patina.

Price:   SOLD