Northwest Bear Mask

Vintage Northwest Coast bear mask with abalone inlay. An anthropomorphic Bear mask that likely dates to the 1970s or 1980s. The mask is painted in blue, black, and red and features inlaid abalone eyes. The face of the Bear has formline elements reminiscent of Kwakwaka’wakw style design. Out of an abundance of caution and in deference to the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, this mask is being offered as “Northwest Coast Style” because of the type of wood and limited information on its origin. Bear came to teach the poor and weak humans their place in nature and help them learn how to live in the world. The bear is a link between the human and non-human animal realms. The bear has many human-like qualities, and is considered to be closely related to humans. Bear Spirit is strong and powerful, and is frequently called upon for strength and courage for the warrior. A fierce mother, Bear will defend its young to the death. Bear Mother is a traditional story of man of the Northwest coastal tribes. Northwest Coast hand carved cedar mask with exceptional abalone eyes, teeth are of walrus ivory. Signed with a bear. Second time around. Came from an estate. The man who acquired now passed on. 14”H 10”W. Est. 1940s. Hand carved. Exceptional abalone in the eyes.

1940s 14"H x 10"W