Large Komokwa Octopus mask by master artist and Chief Calvin Hunt - SOLD

• Nation: Kwakwaka' wakw art, Kwakiutl art, native artists Vancouver Island
• Artist: Hunt, Calvin (Chief)
• Type: Mask

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Calvin just brought us this absolutely mesmerizing piece of Indigenous Art - don't miss out on this one, it will move fast. Calvin's works are highly sought after

Large (24") red cedar Komokwa Octopus Mask by master artist Calvin Hunt, Chief Tlasutiwalis, Kwaku'l, Fort Rupert and Hereditary Chief Nasnamus, Mowochaht, Friendly Cove (please read his biography provided below - very interesting)

The quality of Calvin's art is so stunning. The expression just so powerful. The painting detailed and absolutely perfect. This Mask is easy recognizable as one of his pieces of art. Traditional and elegant. Beautiful cedar, carved to perfection, truly HIGHEST QUALITY CRAFTMANSHIP. The face of the Komokwa is NOT moundted on top - it's fully carved out of a solid piece of cedar! The suckers (depicting octopus) are added. Adorned with traditional cedar bark rope - thick rope! 

Signed and dated at the back, prepared for wall hanging

Measurements: 24" tall, 22" wide, 6" deep

Legend: The Komokwa or Kumukwe is of major importance in Kwaguilth mythology. He was the king of the undersea world, master and protector of the seals who were a symbol of wealth. His name means "wealthy one" and he ruled from a great rich house under the water. The house contained great wealth in blankets, coppers and other treasures. Many humans of legendary history attempted to reach this kingdom. Those who achieved their goal became wealthy and powerful, returning to their home village with magical boxes full of treasure.

The Komokwa is the master of the seals. The posts and beams of his house are living sea lions. Sometimes he appears on the surface of the sea, but his head is so big that it looks like an island. He is responsible for the rising and ebbing of the tides, as well as the riches these tides deposit on beaches, and those claimed by the vagaries of sea weather, both material and human lives. 

We guarantee the authenticity of every piece of art we offer, it's coming direct from the artist

Photos of This Piece

About This Artist

Calvin Hunt, (1956): Chief Tlasutiwalis, Kwaku'l, Fort Rupert and Hereditary Chief Nasnamus, Mowochaht, Friendly Cove is the youngest son of Kwagu’l Hereditary Chief Thomas Hunt, and Emma, the daughter of a great Mowochaht Chief and...Artist bio and other available works »