Gus-da-wa-sa (turtle rattle)
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Curationist Object DescriptionNortheastern and Southeastern Native American tribes developed turtle shells into instruments. Hollowed-out shells were filled with river pebbles, animal teeth, seeds, or other small objects.
Handheld rattles, such as this one from the Iroquois, are traditionally used by medicine men. Its handle is carved to resemble a snake. In Iroquoian cosmology, the turtle carries the Earth on its back and snakes appear as monsters. Therefore, the rattle holds great spiritual significance.
Today rattles are made from tin cans and other modern materials.
Handheld rattles, such as this one from the Iroquois, are traditionally used by medicine men. Its handle is carved to resemble a snake. In Iroquoian cosmology, the turtle carries the Earth on its back and snakes appear as monsters. Therefore, the rattle holds great spiritual significance.
Today rattles are made from tin cans and other modern materials.
Metropolitan Museum of Art Object Description
Gus-da-wa-sa
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All Works in Curationist’s archives can be reproduced and used freely. How to attribute this Work:
Unknown, Gus-da-wa-sa, 19th century. Metropolitan Museum of Art. Handheld rattles are traditionally shaken by medicine men during ceremonies, dances, and rituals. Public Domain.
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