This unique Makah Tribe mask titled “Vision” by the artist features two parts: a mask portion, and a smaller complete figure atop. Both pieces are wonderfully decorated with paint, carved details, feathers, cedar raffia and abalone shell. The details are really stunning in person, try to drop by the gallery and check this piece out – photos do not do justice. Priced at $1800 (was $1900), measures 17h x 7w x 10d, including the raffia the piece is 20 inches high.

The artist is a member of the Makah Nation of Washington State. Bordered by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Pacific Ocean, pre-contact Makah Tribe held a vast area of inland and coastal territory. These richly forested lands and the seas which teemed with life offered early Makah a wealth of natural resources. The Makah skillfully utilized the bounty of the sea. From seals to salmon to whales, the sea was – and still is – a large part of the livelihood of the Makah. Makah lands also encompassed the islands of Waadah, Tatoosh, Ozette, Cannon Ball, the Bodeltas and the islands on Lake Ozette. Their inland holdings were equally vast and reached as far east as Lyre River and as far south as the lands they shared with the Quileute.

Like many indigenous cultures, the arts play an important role in daily life. Today many Makah make a living as artists. Carvers sell masks to galleries, shops and individual collectors throughout the world. Many northwest coastal carvings have a distinct style found nowhere else. They depict animals which were, and still are important to Makah culture. Whales, salmon, halibut, ravens, eagles and wolves are among the most commonly used images in these designs. The carvings usually tell a story, and these stories are passed down within the family.

Many Makah are skilled woodworkers and can make nearly anything they need from the trees, which grow in the surrounding forest. While the most commonly used wood is western red cedar, artists can also be found working with alder, yew and spruce. Carvings can range in size from tiny masks made for earrings to giant, ocean going canoes and totems.

Thank you to the Makah Tribe for this info. https://makah.com/