Magnificent Grizzly Bear Mask by Rupert Jeffrey

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

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Truly magnificent piece of art, fully hand carved by master artist Rupert Jeffrey from the Gitxsan First Nations, Skeena River. 

GRIZZLY BEAR MASK

Did you see all the details in it. Did you see the almost 3D carved little killer whales behind the ears of the grizzly? In the front, the ears show the wolf on one side and the frog on the other. The grizzly's face has an incredible expression, so powerful. The eyes and nostrils are decorated with copper, the tongue is also made of copper, sticking out between the grizzly's teeth. The mask is adorned with silver/black fur (rabbit) which is then again decorated with abalone pieces. And the painting is executed perfectly in a deep black on the stained cedar which just adds to the a little scary and really terrific expression. 

Measurements: 12" x 12" x 7 1/2"

In the artist word’s: “The silver and black furs represent Mezzidian junction in northern BC, a grizzly bear sanctuary. The Mask comes with 3 clan figures. Each clan figures is as follows: Frog, the symbol of old customs and wisdom that will always be passed on to new generation. Wolf, the symbol and style represent the granny’s and grumpa’s who will always assist and heal our young thru teachings and ways of life, the law of the land and seasonal customs. In behind ears defines nature, the symbol of killer whale is a Gitxsan word very old words passed on thru our oral history only. The ones who are chosen to listen will be heard by the soul you will feel the power of ancestor’s words to remind you no matter where you are in life there are always the love you carry from, so walk with pride and dignity and have faith you will never be alone.

This mask is a gift of many emotions as I carved it and as it sets its journey to a new home. I, Rupert Jeffrey carved this piece with a lot of help from family and very close family friends of mine, to share with you a part of my teachings as a Gitxsan carver, may creator bless its path”

Note: no overseas shipping available.

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 »