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.

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 rectangular base with rounded corners. The figures from top to bottom: eagle, Wasgo holding whale in mouth, horizontal human figure with round face looking forward, seated human figure. On back of pole is incised 'carved by Rufus Moody Skidegate Mission B.C. 1959'. Under base is incised '46a'. There are three adhesive tags on the back and bottom of the base. Two read ‘25’, the other ’50-11, 490.00’.