Vancouver Island; British Columbia; Canada
Northwest Coast / Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka)

Wood, pigment, hide
ca. mid 20th century
Length: 17 in
Idiophone – Struck – Indirectly (Rattle)

Rattle forms are mostly dictated by use and there are a multitude of origins and purposes for rattles.  This frog rattle is possibly from the “Makah Nuu-chah-nulth” people, who are often referred to as ‘Nootka.’  To the Northwest Coast Native people, frogs are usually associated with springtime and renewal, however the two smaller frogs serving as tears from the eyes, makes this a weeping frog, possibly associated with disease or misfortune and asking for help. 

The face of the rattle is both carved and painted.  Leather straps inserted into designated holes on the seam of the sides are used to secure the two halves.  A separate carved handle is attached to the upper part of the rattle.  This center handle is encircled by a carved frog and geometric designs.

Rattles are considered extremely personal objects and their specific symbolism and power is known only by those who understand their meaning.