Description
Bella Bella Painted Dance Paddle
Date: 19th Century
Artist: Heiltsuk Bella Bella Artist
Materials: cedar, red and black pigments
Dimensions: 17 2/3” L x 3” x ½”
Provenance: Private Collection British Columbia
Description: A well carved and painted dance paddle featuring different crest designs on each side. Each with an abstract zoomorphic patterns executed in classic Northern Northwest Coast forms. Early painted dance paddle with zoomorphic formline designs painted on both sides. Dark old and original patina. These paddles were brought out during potlatch ceremonies and raised and tapped on the floor to keep beat with the drumming or given to guests as gifts for attending the potlatch.
