1986 Wild Man Mask, by Basil James, Kwakiutl First Nation - SOLD

SOLD

• Nation: Kwakwaka' wakw art, Kwakiutl art, native artists Vancouver Island
• Artist: James, Basil
• Type: Mask

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Superb quality little piece of true Indigenous art

Wild Man Mask

dated 1986, hand carved and stained by late First Nation artist Basil James from Gilford Island, a member of the Kwakiutl First Nations.

This little gem is truly great quality carving, you can see the clean lines, very deep, very precise. Just a marvelous expression. It does show some signs of aging, mostly in the attached traditional cedar bark, but the mask itself is in excellent condition. 

Handwritten signature at the back. Prepared for wall hanging. This mask would look great in a nice wooden frame. 

Measurements: 6 1/2" x 6" x 3"

Meaning: Wild Man (Bukwus), a long-haired wild man of Kwakiutl legend, is a supernatural ghost like figure. He also sometimes known as the "King of Ghosts" or "Man of the Sea". He lives in an invisible house in the forest and attracts the spirits of those who have drowned to his home. Bukwus also tries to persuade humans to eat ghost food so that they will become like him. The Bukwus was a significant character for the Kwakiutl people. 

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Note: Invoice in CAD, overseas shipping costs $45 CAD added at check-out, USD amounts based on average weekly exchange rate, shipping within one business day.

Photos of This Piece

About This Artist

Basil James (1938 - 2005) was born on Gwa'yasdams (Gilford Island). He was a member of the Kwakwakaw'wakw (Kwakiutl) First Nation. His father and teacher was Jack James. Basil James carved a totem pole in his father's honour which...Artist bio and other available works »