6" high. Hand made bentwood box. Made and painted by a traditional Nisga artist. A white owl and a full moon.
Among the Gitxsan people of British Columbia, owls hold a complex and often cautionary place in their belief systems. These nocturnal birds are generally associated with the spirit world and are viewed with a mixture of respect and apprehension.
Owls are often seen as messengers, particularly those carrying news from the realm of the ancestors. Their presence can be interpreted as an omen, sometimes foretelling events or conveying warnings. The hooting of an owl, especially near a village, can be a cause for concern, as it might signify impending misfortune or the presence of spirits.
Gitxsan beliefs often link owls with death and the supernatural. They are considered to be creatures that can traverse between the living and the dead, making them powerful and potentially dangerous. Some stories portray owls as spirit beings that can take human form or possess malevolent intentions.
Despite this association with negative omens, owls also possess a level of respect due to their connection to the spirit world. Traditional knowledge recognizes their keen senses and hunting abilities, acknowledging their role in the natural order. Therefore, Gitxsan beliefs about owls reflect a nuanced understanding of these creatures, recognizing their power and the need for careful consideration when interpreting their presence.
