Thunderbird and Frog Totem by Rupert Jeffrey

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• Nation: Gitxsan art, native American art, Indigenous native artists
• Artist: Jeffrey, Rupert
• Type: Totem

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TOTEM POLE, Thunderbird and Frog, by Gitsxan First Nations artist Rupert Jeffrey from the Skeena River

Hand carved from birch wood from Rupert’s home in Gitsxan Country, it a old family design totem pole, Tsimshian Jeffrey style, the Thunderbird shows the Tsimshian design while the frog shows the Gitsxan

In the artist’s words: „The wood for this totem comes from Kispiox, my home village – it’s birch wood which is medicine when carved. This is carved in the form of my old style frog. This form was passed down from one of my grannys on dad’s side. The Thunderbird is my grumpa, he was a burst of knowledge and knew all the chief’s up and down the skeena into the pacific ocean of villages. He also knew the old dialect they people of the land in history. The pole is a symbol of home – to share the work Gitsxan and Tsimshian“

Very impressive and heavy piece. Even though it’s hollowed out in the back, it’s still a solid and heavy piece of birch. The thunderbird is presented proud above the frog. It’s carved in very deep lines, no machines used, just axe, and hand tools. You can see the knife marks throughout the piece. This was a lot of work. Have a look at the wolf symbol on the left side of the totem, it shows Ruperts carved initials hidden in the eye. I’m adding a close-up image. The totem is also signed at the back by both, carved initials and handwritten signature.

Measurements: 34“ tall, 9“ wide (!!!!) 6“ deep.

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Photos of This Piece

About This Artist

Rupert Jeffrey is a member of the Gitskan First Nation, originating from the Skeena River area, a culture considered to be part of the civilization of the Pacific Northwest Coast although it lies in the interior rather than on the coast. The...Artist bio and other available works »