Period: 1880-1895 Materials: Red cedar, paint, nails Dimensions:
H. 50.0in
W. 13.5in
Depth: 15.0in
This representation of an important leader or honored ancestor was prominently displayed at potlatches. These figures affirmed a chief's claims to hunting and fishing rights and his privileges to own prestigious masks and rattles. This figure wears a cedar bark headring, a symbol of chiefly status, and holds a copper, a item of wealth. His upwardly pointing index finger may imply his elevated status. T162 Culture: Kwakwaka’wakw, Northwest Vancouver Island, British Columbia.
