xawikw (Skull Representation)
About this object
History of use
Wooden skulls are used in Hamatsa ceremonies by initiates. They were used to adorn headdresses, masks, head rings and rattles. They were also used to adorn head and neck rings of ghost dancers associated with Winalagalis war spirits. The number of skulls displayed in Hamatsa rituals indicated the number times the dancer danced as a Hamatsa.
Cultural context
ceremonial
Physical description
Wooden skull with nearly hollow eyes, two holes in eyes and two holes at sides of temples, hole at top of head which goes through to the back; black hair, eyebrows, and sides, red cheeks, nostrils, and teeth.
Categories
Materials
Date Made
Before 1979
Date Acquired
5 Mar 1979
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
Measurements
4.5 x 9.4 x 8.5 cm
Object Number
Nb3.1336