Item Records

This page shows all the information we have about this item. Both the institution that physically holds this item, and RRN members have contributed the knowledge on this page. You’re looking at the item record provided by the holding institution. If you scroll further down the page, you’ll see the information from RRN members, and can share your own knowledge too.

The RRN processes the information it receives from each institution to make it more readable and easier to search. If you’re doing in-depth research on this item, be sure to take a look at the Data Source tab to see the information exactly as it was provided by the institution.

These records are easy to share because each has a unique web address. You can copy and paste the location from your browser’s address bar into an email, word document, or chat message to share this item with others.

  • Data
  • Data Source

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

Carved wooden figure depicting a human figure with a rounded belly. A knob of wood projects at the top, rear, resembling a top-knot in appearance. Engraved facial features include eyes and a mouth depicting two rows of teeth. No limbs are attached.

History Of Use

Possibly may have once stood as a grave marker?

Narrative

The provenance of the figure, before entering the Raley collection, is unknown. Stylistically it seems to vary from other known examples of Coast Salish sculpture, most notably in the facial features. The shape of the mouth and the absence of the triangular nose, commonly seen on Coast Salish sculpture, are the most ambiguous details. However, the shape of the body seems consistent with Wingert's description of Coast Salish grave figures. He notes that these types of figures: "have long oval heads, thin columnar necks, and sloping shoulders. [They] also have tapering torsos, well marked groin lines, and similarly carved hands and fingers... [Facial features have] individualistic details [such as] high pointed nose and deep creases at the sides of the mouth and higher forehead and long broken nose (1949:42)."

Item History

With an account, you can ask other users a question about this item. Request an Account

With an account, you can submit information about this item and have it visible to all users and institutions on the RRN. Request an Account

Similar Items