Haida, Haida Gwaii, British Columbia
Argillite
Length 12 in. (30.5 cm)
Provenance: Sotheby's New York, December 3, 1986, Lot 907 (illustrated)
This Haida argillite pipe is carved with a human head flanked by a crouching frog and bear, a figural grouping consistent with Northwest Coast crest and transformation imagery. Argillite carving became a distinctive Haida art form in the 19th century, with artists on Haida Gwaii using the dense black stone for pipes, panels, figures, and works made for both Indigenous and outside markets. The figural composition reflects the strong narrative and clan-related visual language associated with Northwest Coast carving.
The pipe is worked with compact, deeply cut forms that make effective use of the long horizontal body. The frog, bear, and central human figure are arranged as an integrated sculptural group rather than separate decorative elements. Its Sotheby's 1986 provenance and illustrated auction record give the piece a clear market history.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Haida, Haida Gwaii, British Columbia
Argillite
Length 12 in. (30.5 cm)
Provenance: Sotheby's New York, December 3, 1986, Lot 907 (illustrated)
This Haida argillite pipe is carved with a human head flanked by a crouching frog and bear, a figural grouping consistent with Northwest Coast crest and transformation imagery. Argillite carving became a distinctive Haida art form in the 19th century, with artists on Haida Gwaii using the dense black stone for pipes, panels, figures, and works made for both Indigenous and outside markets. The figural composition reflects the strong narrative and clan-related visual language associated with Northwest Coast carving.
The pipe is worked with compact, deeply cut forms that make effective use of the long horizontal body. The frog, bear, and central human figure are arranged as an integrated sculptural group rather than separate decorative elements. Its Sotheby's 1986 provenance and illustrated auction record give the piece a clear market history.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
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