Masset Haida Pole Raising

DateOctober 2, 1982

Maker Jim M. Hart Canadian, Haida, born 1952

Label TextThe Haida-style pole on this print depicts, from top to bottom: Raven, Frog, Sea Bear with its cub, upside-down human, Bear holding Frog in its mouth, Grizzly Bear holding Sculpin. These are not generic animals but supernatural creatures that were the crests of the original owner of the pole in Masset, Queen Charlotte Islands, in the late 19th century. This was now-famous artist Hart's first solo carving effort and he recreated the pole from fragments. The pole was ceremonially erected on October 2, 1982, behind the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, where it stands today.

Object number2009.5.55

ProvenancePacific Editions auction, Victoria, 2003

Photo CreditPhoto: Elizabeth Mann

Credit LineGift of Simon Ottenberg

Dimensions15 1/2 x 13 in. (39.4 x 33 cm)

MediumSilkscreen print