How to Make a Keruk Effigy

The process begins with the selection and harvesting of the stems of the rush, Juncus.  Each stem must be pulled by hand individually.  The Juncus is laid in the shade to dry; it is turned frequently to prevent discoloration or attack by mold.  When the Juncus is dry it is assembled into a mat by piercing each stem with half a dozen or so cords.

Once the mat is prepared, it is cut and rolled into a shape which corresponds to the legs and torso of the effigy.  The bundles are secured with cordage ties.

Next, teeth are prepared from shells specially imported from the Gulf of California for this specific purpose.  Likewise the eyes are made from shell beads or buttons attached to a toothpick-sized stick with sap.

The eyes and teeth are added to the effigy and the faces are painted according to the moiety of the deceased.  Then they are dressed in fine clothing and equiped for the afterlife.  On the shoulders of each figure owl feather pins were attached.

The finished figures represented the deceased in the ceremony which followed the manufacture of the mortuary effigies.