Wiigwaasi-makak

Lake Superior-area geology is short in supplies of clay, making pottery scarce for the people who lived there.

However, the paper birch grows in profusion in this area, and sheets and panels of its strong, papery bark can be cut and carved from a tree for use.

Birchbark boxes played a key role in creating durable packages and utensils for storage and everyday use.

[1] Exceptionally well-made makakoon could be used as cooking utensils, although this use declined after the arrival of Euro-American traders in the 1600s with metal pots and saucepans for sale.

The sharp quills are sewn into the surface of the box so as to create an abstract design or illustration.