Description

Smudge Fans

Smudge fans are crafted according to the location, customs, and tribal beliefs of the artisan. 

Indigenous Smudge fans have deep significance in traditional culture. Created in the belief that birds link the physical world to the spiritual one, they are regarded as sacred objects in prayer and healing ceremonies.

In a ceremony for healing, medicinal plants like Sage, Semah and Sweetgrass are burned over Cedarwood. The smudge fan wafts the healing smoke toward the individuals. Known as smudging, this ceremony incorporates the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water.

In religious rituals, a fire is lit. The feather waves the smoke — and a specific prayer — toward the Great Spirit above.