5 1/2' high, red cedar Welcome Man carved and painted 360 degrees all around, with abalone onlays. The masks and the body are hollowed out so it won't crack and it's not too heavy. The arms are moveable.
This is a model of a welcome man, a distinct type of totem pole. These stand with outstretched arms at the entrances to villages or territories. Gestures of welcome but also markers exercising sovereignty.
A sun mask on a human body standing on a human head. An eagle's head behind his knees. A carved 3D butterfly on his back, and butterflies carved in relief on his chest and the back of his head. A human carved above the butterfly on the chest further reminds us of the relationship. Butterfly is a companion and helper to raven in northwest Native origin stories. He was with with raven from the beginning of time.
Jimmy Joseph's artwork is easily recognized because of his distinct style characterized by deep carving, and liberal use of dashing and abalone inlays. He also doesn't like to leave any surface uncarved. This carving is a masterwork of Kwak'waka'wakw art. Placing this on a pedestal to increase the height would make a stunning effect.
