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Northwest Coast, Haida or Tlingit, 20th century. Signed "Skate" in pencil below. A striking painting on handmade paper depicting a stylized zoomorph, likely an amphibian frog or toad, delineated in vibrant red and black. The indigenous peoples of the Northwest Coast have traditionally fashioned costumes, adornments, and ritualistic implements with references to ancestors, supernatural beings, or mythical legends involving creatures from the animal kingdom. Though art for art's sake is not particularly exalted among these cultures, skilled workmanship, artistry, and symbolic value, as exemplified in this example, certainly are. Size of artwork: approximately 16" L x 12" W (40.6 cm x 30.5 cm) Size of frame: 20.7" L x 16.7" W (52.6 cm x 42.4 cm)

The frog is an animal of great importance in Northwest Coast art and culture. As an amphibian creature that lives in two worlds, in water and on land, the frog is revered for his remarkable flexibility and adaptability, his ability to traverse these worlds as well as to inhabit both the natural and supernatural realms. The frog is also believed to be the spirit helper of shamans. Given its vocal ability to croak, the frog is highly regarded as a great communicator, who represents the voice of the people. What's more, the frog's songs are believed to be magical, containing divine power. When shown in art as touching or sharing his tongue with another creature, the frog represents an exchange of knowledge and power.

Provenance: ex private Alamo collection, Alamo, California, USA

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#167226

Artwork has not been examined outside the frame. It has shifted a bit within the frame as shown. Signed "Skate" in pencil on lower right. Minor scuffs to the frame and tears to gallery paper on verso. Otherwise, frame is intact and wired for suspension.