A Northwest Coast Polychromed Wood Rattle

composed of carved wood, pigments and stone, depicting a human face, the reverse painted with formline details.  

Very good original conditon with only typcial wear for age including some minor surface abrasion.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a discussion on the use of rattles see Allen Wardwell, Tangible Visions: Northwest Coast Shamanism and its Art, 1996, p. 239: "The rattle was a very important piece of shamanic equipment along the entire Northwest Coast. Its sound provided rhythm for songs, dances, and chants, and attracted spirits to the séances. Wherever it was used, a supernatural presence was thought to be in attendance. The most common form was the round rattle, a globular instrument made of two hollowed pieces of hardwood, usually maple, lashed together, and containing pebbles. Many examples are completely plain. Others are painted and carved with shallow relief designs. A third type, fully three-dimensional, takes the form of animal or human heads."