Raven Ceremonial Rattle by Trevor Angus, Gitxsan

Raven Ceremonial Rattle, c. 2000by Trevor Angus, Gitxsan First Nation alder, glass beads, pigment on a slate stand4” high ( 8.25” high on stand) x 14.5” long x 4” wideMost often associated with shamanic practices on the Northwest Coast, Raven Rattles are held oriented with the bird's beak pointing down when used in dance. Additionally, rattles like this are used to channel a shaman's spirit guide and can be used in healing ceremonies. Much of the symbolism associated with this rattle comments on the transmission of power from one figure to the next—raven to humankind to frog to kingfisher. Rattles are considered extremely personal objects and bear specific symbolism and power known only by those who understand their meaning. As symbols of power, rattles are also kept by clan leaders. Carved in two pieces and assembled using wooden pins to secure the halves, a rattle traditionally contains small stones or seeds, and after contact glass seed beads. Trevor Angus was accepted into the Gita