Dewclaw rattle

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Dewclaw Rattle, c.1870
North American, Dakota, Eastern Sioux people
Maple shaft, buckskin sheath, notched bear dewclaws

Donated by Sir James K Caird, 1896
Museum number 1979-89

Rattles made from bear dewclaws were common amongst the Plains tribes and often related to military societies. The decorated round finial is unusual. The horned figure and use of red pigment indicates it has strong spiritual significance.