Native American, Pacific Northwest Coast, Haida peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A fabulous hand-carved wooden potlatch bowl of rectangular form adorned with a border of thirty-two inlaid shells. Boasting a light burnish and a natural woodgrain surface in a hue of caramel, the lovely vessel features a flat base and thin walls that slant upwards on the shorter sides of the bowl. Each shell showcases a lustrous, convex exterior in shades of mottled creamy white and butterscotch. A potlatch was a celebration that corresponded with a change in social status, such as a marriage, birth, death, or coming of age and consisted of a feast, singing, and dances. At times lasting two to three weeks, these celebrations served as a way for families to show off their wealth by giving presents to attendees related to their social rank - the more expensive the gift, the more prestige granted to the family. Size: 23.375" L x 8.25" W (59.4 cm x 21 cm)

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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#145365

Collection label on base. Petite stable fissure to one shorter side. Expected surface wear with light scratches and abrasions commensurate with age and use.