Photo Gallery

The idea that the first humans lived in a shell is a frequently recurring theme in the various creation myths of the Northwest Coast Indians. This small bone figure, 41 mm (2 inches) high, was dug up together with its protecting shell at Ozette, the archaeological site on the Olympic Peninsula. It is on exhibit at the Makah Museum (Neah Bay, Washington, USA).

The shamans of the Northwest Coast utilized charms in their healing ceremonies. They were usually carved of bone or ivory in the form of a guardian spirit. The charms were either sewn on to clothing or worn around the neck. These little pelicari figurines, attached to one another with a leather thong, form a rare charm which is considered to be quite old. It is made of bone and decorated with haliotis inlays. It was collected from the Tsimshian during the last century. (7 cm; NMM)
NMM = National Museum of Man, Ottawa

Another shaman charm, which was collected fully 100 years ago from the Niska on the Nass River. Carved of bone, it represents a salmon. (9 cm, NMM)
NMM = National Museum of Man, Ottawa

This drinking vessel is carved out of the tusk of a walrus and decorated with haliotis shell. The partially visible figure is probably an anthropomorphic bear. The cup originated in the same region as the salmon charm described above. (14 cm; NMM)
NMM = National Museum of Man, Ottawa

Tlingit warriors were reputed to be fearless in close fighting. This bone dagger with a raven head may be 200 years old. (38 cm; SNHP)
SNHP = Sitka National Historical Park, Sitka

Charm of a Chilkat Tlingit shaman. Made of bone, it is carved in the shape of a sea monster with its offspring underneath its belly and a cuttlefish behind it. (13 cm, SJM)
SJM = Sheldon Jackson Museum, Sitka