Welcome Figure Item Number: Nb7.257 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Large standing welcome figure on a circular base. The figure has a mask-like face with deep set eyes, low relief eyebrows, prominent cheek bones and sharp angular nose. The mouth is open, showing two rows of teeth. The torso is straight and legs slightly bent at knees. The arms are carved separately in two pieces and joined at shoulders and elbows with wooden pegs. The elbows are bent, hands in front holding a carved wooden ladle (part b). The ladle has a deep oval bowl and a handle less than half the length of the whole.

History Of Use

Traditionally figures like this were carved for specific feasts and then thrown out into the bush. The ladle the figure holds would have held oolachan oil.

Narrative

The welcome figure was commissioned by Derek Simpkins in 1979. The sketches were approved in Dec. 1980, and carving was completed in Dec. 1981 at the Granville Island workshop. The figure was exhibited at Norman's studio gallery until May 1982. According to Mr. Simpkins, the carving of this figure inspired Joe David to carve a welcome figure.

Item History

What

Name
Welcome Figure
Identification Number
Nb7.257 a-b
Type of Item
figure
Material
cedar wood
Manufacturing Technique
carved
Overall
height 224.0 cm, width 93.0 cm, depth 72.0 cm
Part B
height 22.0 cm, width 56.0 cm, depth 23.0 cm

Who

Culture
Nisga'a
Creator
Norman Tait (Maker)
Previous Owner
Derek Simpkins and Mrs. Derek Simpkins
Received from
Derek Simpkins (Donor) and Mrs. Derek Simpkins (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
British Columbia, Canada

When

Creation Date
during 1981
Collection Date
during 1981
Ownership Date
before December 2, 1985
Acquisition Date
on December 2, 1985

Other

Condition
fair
Accession Number
1068/0001 a-b