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Native American, Southwestern United States, Zuni Pueblo, Navajo, or Hopi culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A rattle made from deer or elk antler and a dried skin pouch filled with beads. The handle is wrapped in strips of red felt with sinew cords, and attached to the side are metal jingle bells, glass trade beads, and a turkey feather. The hide is painted with an elk and a red heartline arrow, slightly covered by the felt are sets of deer / elk track symbols. The heartline signifies the spiritual breath of the animal. Nice signs of age and use throughout suggesting this rattle dates to the first half of the 20th century, and quite possibly late 19th century. Size: 9″ L x 3″ W (22.9 cm x 7.6 cm)
A document provided by the previous seller suggests that this type of rattle was employed in Ghost Dance ceremonies, but we have been unable to verify this information. It is possible that the rattle was used in dance ceremonies, although the heartline symbol is of Pueblo Zuni and/or Navajo origin. It is worth noting that many Navajo tribes rejected the Ghost Dance.
Please note this item falls under the Safeguard Tribal Objects of Patrimony Act and is not eligible for international shipping. Native American, Alaska Native, & Native Hawaiian objects are only eligible to ship within the United States.
Condition: Clear signs of age and use. Wear and fading to the painted motifs on the hide. Stable hairline fissures on the antler. A metallic elastic band on the handle was probably added at a later time. Intact and excellent. Rattle functions.
Provenance: private Thornton, Colorado, USA collection, purchased from Indian Trader West, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, April 5, 1994
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