ABSTRACT
It is occasionally reported that when hunter tribes such as the Eskimos kill a large animal, a walrus or a white whale, they fling themselves with wild ravenous greed on the spoil, which they devour raw. Yet even among hunters and collectors the preparation of food appears to be connected with no little ceremonialism, an attitude based on traditional considerations. Apart from the making of fire, cooking itself among the Bergdama is already conducted with scrupulous care. Two pots which have been put on the fire must never touch each other. That would be a misdemeanour entailing consequences that must be atoned for by special rites. In particular, it causes bad luck in hunting. In addition to the supreme head of the kraal, there is also a food-master, who has to taste the dishes before they are eaten.
