Rattle in the form of a bear hugging a small dog, Staffordshire, England

Rattles are musical instruments that produce sound when shaken or struck. They are typically made of various materials such as wood, metal, plastic, or even animal bones. Rattles have been used in many cultures throughout history for ceremonial purposes, as toys for children, and in music making. They are often associated with indigenous cultures and are used in traditional dances and rituals. Rattles can be simple or elaborately decorated, and the sound they produce can range from a soft rustle to a loud and percussive shake.