North Olympic Peninsula, Washington State
Makah

Wood, pigment
ca. Mid –  20th century
Length: 11 in; Diameter: 3.5 in
Idiophone – Struck – Indirectly (Rattle)

A Makah dance rattle from the North Olympic Peninsula, in Washington State.  Rattles are made to represent something from the sea or wildlife.  The carving of this rattle represents the Thunderbird, which in Indian mythology is the noble and omnipotent ruler of the skies and master of the elements. It is the Great Eagle, respected throughout the area by all the coastal tribes. This very  uniquely handcarved rattle is colored with the Makah Indian Nations’ chosen colors (green, red, and black).  A hole (1.5 inches in diameter) is made in the bottom and the rattle is filled with dried corn or pebbles.  The handle consists of two halves that are joined together and inserted into the bottom hole of the rattle.