Chukchi

[Self-designation лыгъоравэтлъан] The Chukchi live in the far northeast of Siberia and refer to themselves as Luoravetlans. Like the Koryaks, they are divided into two groups. One of them lives inland, where reindeer herding is their main source of livelihood. The other part lives on the coast and hunts marine animals there. The exchange of life-essential materials between these two groups has always been of particular importance. They express their respect for nature through special rituals and seasonal reconciliation feasts.

Worldview and ritual

The Chukchi express their special relationship with nature and respect for its powers through special festivals that take place at certain times of the year. In artistic representations, such as engravings on walrus tusks, they depict not only scenes from everyday life, but also worldviews that have been passed down in their storytelling tradition.

5 collection items

Hunting

In addition to modern means of transport, special types of snowshoes are used for hunting on land.

1 collection item

Clothing

The clothing of the Chukchi had to be adapted to the extreme climatic conditions. Suitable materials from the diverse animal world are used for this purpose and are still processed today using traditional tools.

6 collection items

Household items

Important household items include a beater for removing snow from clothing and the cover of the tent dwelling (yaranga). Special tools are used for preparing food.

2 collection items

Games

The Chukchi enjoyed their own ball games, which in recent times have been replaced by games brought by newcomers. Board games were also popular and were sometimes adapted to their own traditions.