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.