Tsimshian Raven Rattle

Tsimshian Raven Rattle

Length: 13 ¾ in (35 cm))
The proper left wing inscribed in black ink: "BEASLEY COLLECTION. HAIDA 11-6-1931", and with an arrow-like glyph; the proper right wing inscribed in black ink: "HAIDA BRITISH COLUMBIA. H.M.S. GROWLER. 1864"

Condition Report:
In excellent condition overall for an object of this age and type, with wear consistent with use and handling. As visible in the catalogue illustrations, there is scattered cosmetic wear to the applied pigments in places throughout. Some very minor nicks, chips, scratches, and abrasions. The wings are intact, and bear Beasley collection inscriptions, as detailed in the catalogue. A small loss or hole to the very thinly and delicately carved upper surface of the rattle, underneath the openwork carved figure. The two halves of the rattle solidly joined together, seemingly with the original bindings; the front-most pair of "holes" on either side have not been pierced through.

Provenance:
Lieutenant-Commander Edmund Verney, acquired between 1862-1864, probably in October 1863 at Metlakatla
Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Harry Verney, Bart., Claydon House, Buckinghamshire, by descent from the above
Harry G. Beasley, Chislehurst, acquired from the above on June 11, 1931
Irene M. Beasley, Brighton, by descent from the above
Graves Son & Pilcher, Hove, March 3, 1975, lot 204, consigned by the estate of the above
Private Collection, acquired at the above auction
Christie's, London, June 26, 1995, lot 187, consigned by the above
Jeffrey R. Myers, New York, acquired at the above auction
Abraham Rosman and Paula Rubel, New York, acquired from the above on June 6, 2003