$1,350.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
ca. 1910
4.5" x 9"
With 2 large eagles and 4 flying ducks on body and sitting ducks on lid; lid with knob.
Somewhat faded, but overall in Excellent Condition.
Makah thunderbird
The Makah Thunderbird is a significant cultural symbol of the Makah Tribe, an indigenous people living in Neah Bay, Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula. According to Makah oral traditions, the Thunderbird is a powerful, supernatural being that plays a crucial role in their stories and legends.
Thunderbird and Whale
One notable story associated with the Makah Thunderbird is its epic battle with a whale. This tale is depicted in various forms of Makah art, including carvings and drawings. The story tells of a time when the Makah people were struggling due to harsh weather conditions, and the Thunderbird intervened by attacking the whale, causing a massive earthquake and tsunami. This event is believed to have occurred in the distant past and is seen as a manifestation of the Thunderbird’s power and benevolence.
Cultural Significance
The Makah Thunderbird is deeply rooted in the tribe’s spiritual and cultural practices. It is often depicted in traditional art forms, such as carvings and masks, and is associated with the tribe’s connection to the natural world and their ancestral homeland. The Thunderbird is also linked to the Makah people’s whaling traditions, as the whale hunt is seen as a way to honor the Thunderbird’s gift of life and sustenance.
Contemporary Expression
Today, the Makah Thunderbird continues to inspire artistic expression and cultural revitalization within the tribe. Many Makah artists incorporate the Thunderbird motif into their work, including carvings, paintings, and textiles. The tribe’s cultural programs and events, such as the annual Makah Canoe Journey, also feature the Thunderbird as a symbol of their rich cultural heritage.
Respect and Understanding
It is essential to approach the Makah Thunderbird with respect and understanding, recognizing its significance within the tribe’s cultural and spiritual practices. Avoiding cultural appropriation and misrepresentation, it is crucial to acknowledge the Thunderbird’s importance within the context of Makah traditions and history. By doing so, we can foster greater appreciation and understanding of this vital cultural symbol.
Condition:
Excellent
Tribe:
Makah - Nootka - Quinault - Chehalis
Year Range:
1900 - 1925
Region:
Pacific Northwest - and Alaska
Dimensions:
4.5 in9 in
