Tlingit/Haida Shaman Figure

Tlingit/Haida hand-carved wooden Shaman's guardian figure with a raven's head and wearing leather clothing with fur trim, glass beaded necklaces, and a removable staff in his hands. The clothing all symbolizes prestige and are worn during dance ceremonies and potlatches- a tunic / chilkat blanket covers his torso and a dance apron skirt is tied around his waist, these leather adornments are painted with formline motifs, abstract faces and ovoid shapes; white weasel or rabbit fur is attached to the conical hat and the leggings. The raven figure stands atop a block base, also painted with formline animal visages; a very unique and striking presence! Shamans acquired powers from the spirits and animals they communed with - raven was a venerated totemic bird and a trickster spirit that also represented creation, knowledge, and the nuances of truth-telling. Many clans used the raven as their emblem and shamans would channel their energy- this is indeed a superb portrayal of transformation and ceremonial regalia! Carvings were imbued with spirits from the carver and the entities they depicted, this may have been made to stand guard in a home or lodge and assist the tribe's shaman by providing protection from illness and ward off evil spirits. Beautiful carvings with adornments like this example were often made for special occasions and as gifts.