Description
Fabulous Example of NWC Argillite Eagle/Raven Stealing the Light Rattle
For sale is an authentic Northwest Coast argillite rattle in the motif of Raven Stealing the Light.
When used as a rattle (upright) the head of the rattle is an eagle. When horizontal, the rattle is a raven with the moon in its beak. The images reflect the cultural story of the “Raven stealing the moon”.
Rattles are percussive instruments used in shamanic & ceremonial contexts.
Argillite is a variety of shale and the source is limited to a single quarry on Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands B.C.) making the stone quite rare.
The light is a piece of abalone shell: The eagle and raven are both adorned with mother of pearl for each of their eyes.
These characters are usually a display of the carver`s own crests. Crests are markers of identity, indicating personal inheritance and symbolizing the family`s wealth, position and honor.
This rattle is signed by the Haida artist Kevin Neal Ryland.
The inscription on the base reads “2011 Raven Steals the Light / Eagle Kevin Neal Ryland”.
This piece is 10 1/2″ X 3 1/2 X 2″ and in excellent condition.
I have been selling authentic native art on line since 1999 so buy with confidence.
