gyaaGang (Model Totem Pole)

These poles were carved to be ornaments and art objects in non-Haida cultural context. Argillite carvings were first produced for trade to Europeans in the 1820's. Miniature argillite poles were first carved in the 1870's. 20 century pieces tend to incorporate highly individual departures from previous styles, reflecting in some cases a loss of tradition.

commercial art

Crests represented particular kinship groups and may depict elements of myth.

Carved argillite, miniature totem pole with flat back. The pole is rectangular in shape with a slight taper at the top and is seated on a square base. The figures from top to bottom: wolf/human ? transformation figure with a down turned body, round incised tail and round frontward-facing human face. Bear, with wide toothed mouth, paws meeting in front of chest and legs bent at the knee with round incised tail between them. Base is in form of slightly stylized frog with front paws formed by lines incised over front edge. Incised underneath is 'Henry Young'.