Coast of British Columbia – Haida 
Northwest Coast / Haida

Wood, pigment
Collected 1968
Length: 13 in; Width: 2.25 in
Idiophone – Struck – Struck Directly – Clapper

A pair of Haida dance paddles (clappers) with painted carved eagle handles acquired in 1968.  The Haida people, known as the First Nations, Pacific Northwest Coast United States and Canada, believe that the eagle is a messenger between the physical and spiritual worlds.  It represents strength, power, and prestige and is associated with freedom and spiritual growth.

While drums and rattles are the predominant percussive instruments used in shamanistic and ceremonial contexts, these small hand paddles were used in dances as symbolic objects and tools.  When held in both hands and struck against each other they are both sonorous.