Native American, North America, Pacific Northwest Coast, probably Alaskan Inuit, ca. early 20th century CE. A hand-carved whale or walrus bone totem pole of a charming form that stands atop a separately carved wooden base. The bottom of the totem pole depicts a stylized bear with its forepaws resting atop the head of an anthropomorphic figure seated in its lap. The top half shows a thunderbird, with attached, outstretched wings, that stands atop a pair of anthropomorphic maskettes while staring outwards with large eyes behind a massive aquiline beak. The composition is accentuated with applied red, yellow, and brown pigment that create a captivating presentation. Size: 4.25" W x 6.5" H (10.8 cm x 16.5 cm)
Provenance: private Southern California, USA collection, bestowed 2006; ex-J. Malter collection, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired before 2006
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#167834
Condition
Totem pole is adhered to base. Minor nicks and abrasions to totem pole, base, and wings, with expected ossification to bone, and light fading to pigments, otherwise intact and very good. Great preservation to finer details and applied pigments. Old inventory labels beneath base.