41 1/2" x 18" x 8"

Some Northwest Coast Native peoples used wooden puppets for ceremonial purposes in their secret societies. This particular piece is represented in the style of Dead Man “Olala”, who is a mythical cannibal spirit in Haida culture. The puppet would be worn so that the body fits over the head of the wearer, and the piece looks as if it is floating – a dramatic and frightening effect. The puppet’s long arms and legs would dangle and mimic the movements of the dancer; as the dancer moved, rattling noises would be generated by the arms and feet colliding with one another. The head of the puppet was moved in such a way that the cut-out eyes and white teeth would glow in the light, creating a melodramatic effect.