Large First Nations Salmon is coppery colored and sports Mother-of-Pearl inlay pieces. Very clean and precise carving throughout. A great statement piece that could occupy a large focal position very well. Measures24 x 11 x 5 inches, priced at $1150.

The artist was born in 1963. He is a member of the Kwakwakaw’wakw, also known as Kwakiulth or Kwagiulth First Nation, origination from Alert Bay in their ancestral lands. When he was 11 years old, he knew he wanted to carve. He later learned advanced techniques and skills of carving from the amazing George Hunt Jr. He also worked closely for over 15 years with his cousin, the world-renowned artist Beau Dick. This artist was trained by the very best and he follows in their steps.

Today he is achieved carving mastery and is known for playful and impressive subjects alike, and for his very detailed work, often featuring precise Mother-of-Pearl inlay in abundance, and brilliant coppery paint colors.

The Native Salmon Symbol symbolizes abundance, fertility, prosperity and renewal. For thousands of years, Salmon have been the primary food source for Northwest Coast Native Americans and are highly respected.

Some People of the Pacific Northwest coast believed that Salmon are immortal humans who live in villages deep under the ocean. In the springtime, these immortal humans put on Salmon disguises to offer themselves as food to the people.

After the Salmon were eaten the people would put the full fish skeleton back in the water in the belief that its spirit would rise again and turn back into Salmon people, thus creating the cycle of life.

In Kwakiutl culture, it is believed that to have twins was a blessing from the Salmon people and only twins had the right to perform the Salmon dance. Thank you spiritsofthewestcoast.com.