Skip to main content
Collections Menu
Culture

Figure

Datec. 1825
MediumArgillite
DimensionsOverall: 6 1/4 × 2 1/4 × 2 in. (15.9 × 5.7 × 5.1 cm)
Object numberT0539
Credit LineGift of Eugene V. and Clare E. Thaw
Photograph by Richard Walker
Label TextIn the first half of the 19th century Haida carvers began to use carbonaceous shale known as argillite to make an array of artworks such as these for the budding tourist market. These carvings enabled Haida to trade with visiting Europeans in response to tourists seeking souvenirs. Argillite carvings often contain imagery that encompasses both Haida and European cultures. The slate is naturally grey but after finishing the carving the artist rubbed his fingers over the carving and natural oils and sweat created the darkened and highly polished surface.
ProvenanceGeorge Terasaki, New York City
BibliographyVincent, Gilbert et al. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2000, p.347.

Fognell, Eva and Alexander Brier Marr, eds. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection at the Fenimore Art Museum, 2nd ed. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2016, p. 374.
On View
On view
Plate
Haida
c. 1880
Model Totem Pole
Haida
c. 1890
Argillite Sailors
Haida
c. 1845
Shaman Figure
Haida
c. 1890
Spoon
Haida
c. 1870
Female Figure
Haida
c. 1830
Model Head Canoe
Possibly Haida
c. 1830-1860
Bowl
Haida
c. 1850
Headdress Frontlet
Heiltsuk (Bella Bella)
1870-1900
Spoon
Haida
c. 1920
Comb
Seneca (Haudenosaunee)
1670-1687
Comb
Seneca (Haudenosaunee)
1660-1675

5798 STATE HIGHWAY 80
COOPERSTOWN NY, 13326
607-547-1400

close

Subscribe to our mailing list

* indicates required