Model, of totem pole

This slatestone model totem pole was made for sale by the Haida, Canadian Indians of the north-west coast of America. It dates from between 1860 and 1923.

The carving on the pole represents a sea-monster with a bear's head and a whale's fins and tail, surmounted by a squatting human figure wearing a chief's cylindrical hat.

The Haida were widely known for their art. They produced elaborate totem poles carved with crests representing important events in family histories. These were used both inside and outside the home. In the late 20th century the Haida numbered only about 2000.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-180-000-046-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0504: National Museums Scotland Part 2 Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1923.394
Date:	Between 1860 and 1923
Material:	Inscription: Grotesque squatting human figure on whose head another human figure with high cylindrical hat is perched
Dimensions:	20.50" H
What:	Totem pole / model
Subject:	Argillite
Who:
Where:	North America, Northwest Coast, Canada
Event:
Description:	Model totem pole carved in slatestone representing two human figures: Canadian Indians, of the Northwest Coast
References:
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