Komokwa Mask with Loon Crown, copper and fur, by Kevin Cranmer

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

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Incredibly detailed and superb piece of art – traditional and simply beautiful! Very rich in expression.

Komokwa crowned with the Loon - by Kwakiutl Indigenous artist Kevin Cranmer.

Kevin Cranmer, originates from Alert Bay, British Columbia, but has lived most of his life in Victoria on Vancouver Island. Kevin can trace his ancestry to many tribes in the Kwa’kwaka’wakw nation, ‘Nagmis (father), Mamalilikala (mother), Kwagiutl (paternal grandmother), Da’naxda’xw (maternal grandmother), Lawit’sis (paternal great-grandmother), and can also trace his roots to the Tlingit of Alaska. Cranmers’ great-great-great grandmother, A’nisalaga (Mary Ebberts), was a Tlingit noble woman from Tongass, Alaska. She was a Chilkat blanket weaver of great regard and the matriarch of the Hunt family of the Kwagiutl tribe from Tsaxis (Fort Rupert). He descends from the Cranmer, Flanders, Hunt and Bruce families.

Red cedar, hand carved, hand painted, authentic and signed. This is one of Kevin’s earlier pieces. He told us he carved it between 1995-98. Please have a close look to appreciate the quality of the carving. The teeth are made of copper, the mask is decorated with fur and the traditional cedar bark.

The Loon on top of the Komokwa is elegant, graceful and rich, the painting is just close to perfection. The loon’s head is articulated, moving it’s head to the side when the connected string is pulled.at the back. It's in great condition, showing minor signs of gentle handling and aging, mostly on the cedar bark. 

Measurements: total: 23” high from wings to chin, 34” total incl. the cedar bark. 17” deep to top of loon’s beak. The face is 13” x 12” x 8”

Meaning: The Komokwa is a mythological creature, symbolizing wealth, healing power and is able to for see the future. The Komokwa 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, together with his wife, 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 LOON symbolizes serenity and tranquility. They teach us to listen to and learn from our dreams, because if you believe in them, the might come true and your hopes and wishes will be fulfilled.

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Photos of This Piece

About This Artist

Kevin Cranmer, originates from Alert Bay, British Columbia, but has lived most of his life in Victoria on Vancouver Island. Kevin can trace his ancestry to many tribes in the Kwa’kwaka’wakw nation, ‘Nagmis (father), Mamalilikala...Artist bio and other available works »