Sisiutl Canoe Carrying Winalagalis and His Wife by Nakwesee, Cherokee

Sisiutl Canoe Carrying Winalagalis and His Wife, c. 2000 by Nakwesee (Leanne Smith), Cherokee and adopted Kwakwaka'wakw First Nationwalrus ivory, fossil walrus ivory, agate base3.5” high x 8.5“ long x 4” diameter Winalagalis is the Warrior God of the Kwakwaka'wakw people of British Columbia. He comes from Northern underworld to winter with the Kwakwaka'wakw people. Winalagalis is the bringer and ruler of Tseka (Winter Ceremonial), and imbues red cedar bark with supernatural power. Winalagalis is associated with a magical war canoe that is the transformational embodiment of Sisiutl, the Double Headed Sea Serpent. This magical canoe can fly, and can travel underground, and is permanently fused with Winalagalis. Winalagalis is always announced to the ceremony by whistles & roars that imitate his voice. His ceremonies include the Tuxwid and Hawinalal warrior invincibility dances, and the Ma'maka (disease thrower) dance. Nakwesee (Leanne Smith) is an ambassador of native culture. Her ca