Komokwa, Chief of the Sea mask, 18", by Andy Bruce

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

Note: Price shown is CAD 

...AND....shipping is FREE to US and Canada

Large and very interesting Mask of the "KING OF THE UNDERSEA - KOMOKWA" by the Kwakiulth First Nations Artist ANDY BRUCE

Truly fabulous craftsmenschip, solid cedar, very distinctive and strong. the painting of the dark green and red/black against the white is really powerful.

Measurements: 18" x 17 1/2" x 6 1/2" (46 x 44.5 x 16.5 cm) - This is an old, authentic piece that shows very minor signs of gentle handling/aging. 

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. One terrific story recounts how he eats human eyes as if they were crab apples. Komokwa has the power to see into the future, heal the sick and injured, and bestow powers on those whom he favours.

Note: the "wings" will be taken off for safe shipping, easy to re-attach!

Photos of This Piece

About This Artist

Born in a remote fishing village of Alert Bay, British Columbia. Andy's lineage is of the famous Hunt and Cook family. For example his great, great grandfather George Hunt worked closely with the famous anthropologist Franz Boaz. He is a member...Artist bio and other available works »