Silver and Gold Bear Bracelet

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This tapered cuff bracelet is a profound expression of Northwest Coast artistry, hand-carved by master jeweler Mathew Baker. Born in 1966 on the Capilano Reservation in North Vancouver, Baker carries a rich dual lineage, with a mother from the Kwak'waka'wakw people and a father from the Coast Salish (Squamish Nation). Taught by his late father, the master totem carver Dick Baker, Mathew has spent decades refining a "smooth expert style" that makes his jewelry highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

Measuring 1 inch wide and 6 1/4 inches long, this sterling silver bracelet features a stunning 14 kt gold onlay that serves as the centerpiece of a traditional "split design." At the heart of the piece, the Bear’s head is rendered in rich yellow gold, its features defined by the bold, fluid lines characteristic of indigenous coastal tradition.

 

Symbolic Design and Technical Mastery

The composition flows outward from the golden centre depicting the Bear’s physical power through intricate formline segments:

• The Body: A large ovoid represents the bear’s shoulder, balanced by another at the hip.
• The Limbs: U-shapes and trigons elegantly illustrate the arms and legs.
• The Details: Two additional ovoids represent the paws, leading to claws that are carved with distinct, powerful emphasis.
• The Texture: Masterfully executed crosshatching fills the negative spaces, providing a rhythmic contrast to the polished silver surfaces.

The design is mirrored on both sides of the bracelet although they're not identical.  The design is contained within a meticulously carved frame that borders the entire piece. This balance of silver and gold, combined with the blend of Squamish and Kwak'waka'wakw styles, reflects Baker's commitment to cultural revitalization and the "ancient stories" of his ancestors.

Custom Artistry for Your Collection

Beyond his individual creations, Mathew Baker is a dedicated mentor who views art as a vital tool for preserving heritage. Because each piece is a reflection of a living culture, Mathew is available for custom orders. Clients have the opportunity to collaborate on a bespoke heirloom, choosing the specific length and width, the materials (such as precious stones or silver-and-gold overlays), and the crest design that resonates most with their personal journey.

Whether depicting an ancestor, a spirit, or an animal like the noble bear seen here, a piece by Mathew Baker is a wearable narrative of the Pacific Northwest.

Mathew Baker's bio.