Haida, British Columbia, Canada

12 inches, wood, natural pigments

The Haida held a set of beliefs about the way the human world interacted with the natural and supernatural worlds. There shared concepts centered around curing the sick, ensuring the supply of fish and game, and influencing in the weather. Among the ranks of shaman were those whose powers were particularly effective within a range of tasks such as securing the outcome of major event like trading or warfare. Among the Haida the masks were used mostly by members of the secret societies. Secret society dances frequently used masks to represent wild spirits or animals of the woods like the beaver.

This is a middle to late 20th century piece that has great charm. The hands and tree branch are removable. Unsigned. A dealer in NWC masks recently told me it is a reproduction carved in Indonesia.

SOLD