Bracelet
About this object
History of use
Metalwork has a long history in copper and iron on the Northwest Coast. Silver and gold American coins—from which the early Haida bracelets were made—were scarce along the Northwest Coast until the 1860s. Ginaawaan would have been one of the first generation of silversmiths, as he was already accomplished by his death in 1876.
Narrative
Purchased by donor from a 2013 Heffel Canadian Art auction in Toronto, previously from a private collection in California.
Specific techniques
The artist would have hammered out the silver or gold coins, or first melted them into ingots, and then engraved them.
Physical description
Coin silver bracelet with double killer whale design, covering outer surface except for a very thin border. Two whales facing each other at centre, noses not quite touching. Tails go out to each end. Crosshatched background. The bracelet has squared ends, with two hook clasps and corresponding slots.
Date Made
C. 1860-1876
Date Acquired
12 Aug 2017
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
Measurements
Overall: 3.2 cm x 7 cm x 6.2 cm
Object Number
3260/181