Welcome Figure
Item number Nb7.257 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia.
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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.
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
- Made by Norman Tait (Maker) in British Columbia, Canada during 1981
- Collected during 1981
- Owned by Derek Simpkins and Mrs. Derek Simpkins before December 2, 1985
- Received from Derek Simpkins (Donor) and Mrs. Derek Simpkins (Donor) on December 2, 1985
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
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
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)
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
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