Native American, Pacific Northwest, ca. 1962 CE, created by Lelooska (Don Smith, 1933-1996). An stunning hand-carved wooden mask, carved and signed by Lelooska, one of a handful of artists credited with creating a renaissance of Northwest Coastal art in the second half of the twentieth century. The face is fierce, with sunken eyes, high cheekbones, and a jutting, open mouth with wide red lips. Blue decorates the face, forming large shapes around the eyes and on the cheeks and mouth. Red fills out the nostrils and lips. Signed on back with "L. L." Size: 6" W x 8.85" H (15.2 cm x 22.5 cm); 12.15" H (30.9 cm) on included custom stand.
In addition to being a hugely celebrated artist and storyteller, Lelooska had a keen interest in studying many different aspects of Native American culture, especially those linked to the Pacific Northwest, including speaking several Native American languages. In 1977 he created the Lelooska Foundation, which, along with the advice of chiefs and tribal elders, allowed him to create a living history program that continues to this day. Lelooska was born of Cherokee heritage, and was adopted in adulthood by the Kwakiutl Sewid clan (Kwakwaka'wakw). His peak years of fame and artistic output were from the 1970s to the early 1990s, and his shows attracted as many as 30,000 people per year.
Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection
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#133644
Condition
Small chips and nicks on surface commensurate with age. Dark patina from age and handling. Generally in excellent condition.