10" high not counting the hair and the stand. Hand carved red cedar rattle. Traditional Gitxsan design.
The Gitxsan word for shaman is Halayt. Shamans healed the sick and performed other beneficial ceremonies and functions. They were gifted people that were able to make contact with the spirit world and receive help from there. Individuals that were born with spiritual power were trained by recognized Halayts. They worked together with bone setters, midwives and herbalists in the traditional health care system.
During the 1960’s the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Indian Art at Ksan village was opened. This followed the rescinding of the Potlatch ban which had outlawed Native culture. Here Gitxsan artists learned and taught with Haida, Tsimshian, and Native artists from all over BC. They studies old pieces from books and museums because so much knowledge had been lost and there was no one to teach them. Gitxsan and Northwest Coast carving enjoyed a resurgence.
Gitxsan artist's bio available with purchase.
