susan mills: shaman’s robe

a shaman’s robe would be used in ceremonies to assist in travels to the upper world. the three pods on the back of the robe are symbolic of spirit ships. each contain female shaped coral pieces as well as bonesand silver. they act as protection for her and offer protection as she travels. the two vessels are shamanic rattles that would be used to alter the state of the shaman and therefore allow her to travel to other realms. the two stone arrows are symbolic of ritual and would serve to pierce the veil between the two worlds. the books represent the library of the shaman’s soul.