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

Young Targia with her little brother in the Kel-Iguéga camp - The boy carries a lucky amulet containing a written verse from the Koran - Well of Tezirzek- Niger - Aïr - 199292

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