The Lukwalit or house dish is wheeled out during potlatches to serve food and other gifts. This object really spoke to me as I observed its intricate carvings as well its mechanical brilliance. This Lukwalit is made in the fashion of a “Sisiyuti” or double headed serpent. The Lukwalit has wheels and an axle system to enable the transportation of its contents. Next to that, it is carved out of a cedar monoblock which is an engineering feat for its time. I also noticed that the paint is still in good condition: I wonder what kind of paint or stain was used as it has maintained its lustre and colour. This object makes me think of the marriage of engineering and artistic/cultural brilliance of the Lawitsis people on Turnour island.
Jpeg