Description
Argillite Totem
Artist: Ike Hans ( died in 1961) Haida
Date:1920-40
Materials: argillite
Dimensions: 15 ¼” T x 4” x 4”
I’m pleased to present this exceptional Haida argillite totem pole carved by noted carver Ike Hans, a respected Haida artist who passed in 1961. It is a substantial and beautifully executed work dating from approximately 1920–1940. The largest example I have seen by this artist. He worked side by side with the great Skidegate artists of the period.
The pole stands 15 1/4 inches tall and is carved from solid argillite with a separate argillite base. The composition features a powerful sequence of crest figures: a Bear holding the Skil hat (four rings) of the chiefly Raven, who has a Frog emerging from his mouth; below sits a Beaver holding a stick, with a finely cross‑hatched tail. The rectangular base represents a stylized Frog, completing the narrative. The carving is confident, balanced, and richly detailed throughout.
Provenance : Having been collected in the 1960s by John Piters of West Vancouver, thence through family descent. Acquired directly from the family
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