Mazinibaganjigan

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Mazinibaganjigan (plural: mazinibaganjiganan) is an ancient folk art made by the Ojibwa (Anishinaabe) by biting down on small pieces of Birch bark to form intricate designs. In some areas, it is also known as ozhibaganjigan(-an). Using the eye teeth to bite, the bite pressures can either pierce the bark pieces into a lace or just make certain areas thinner to allow for light to pass through. If the bark piece is carefully folded, symmetrical designs can also be made onto it. Many of the designs that are used contain symbological and religious significance to the Ojibwa. Though the practice almost died out, there are an estimated dozen practitioners left, some of whom display the craft in contexts outside of their original intentions to show evidence of this ancient practice.

[edit] See also

• wiigwaasabak – Birch bark scrolls
• jiimaan – Canoe typically made using birch bark
• maniwiigwaasekomaan – Knife for harvesting birch bark
• wiigiwaam – Wigwam, typically made using birch bark
• wiigwaasi-makak – boxes and other containers made of birch bark
• wiigwaas-onaagan – dishes and trays made of birch bark

[edit] References

• F. Densmore, Chippewa Customs (1929, repr. 1970)