Native American, Pacific Northwest, Kwakwaka'wakw people (Kwakiutl), ca. mid to late 20th century CE, purportedly created by Lelooska (Don Smith, 1933-1996) or a member of the Lelooska family. An incredible hand-carved wooden mask, purportedly created by Lelooska, one of a handful of artists credited with creating a renaissance of Northwest Coastal art in the second half of the twentieth century. Adorned in teal, white, black, and red paints, the massive vizard displays annular, openwork eyes, a broad nose, and full, slightly parted lips. A striking border of repeated protruding tabs decorates the periphery of the piece, making it resemble a flower. Size: 11.25" W x 14.875" H (28.6 cm x 37.8 cm); 18.75" H (47.6 cm) on included custom stand.

In addition to being a celebrated artist and storyteller, Lelooska had a keen interest in studying many different aspects of Native American culture, especially those linked to the Pacific Northwest, including speaking several Native American languages. In 1977 he created the Lelooska Foundation, which, along with the advice of chiefs and tribal elders, allowed him to create a living history program that continues to this day. Lelooska was born of Cherokee heritage and was adopted in adulthood by the Kwakiutl Sewid clan (Kwakwaka'wakw). His peak years of fame and artistic output were from the 1970s to the early 1990s, and his shows attracted as many as 30,000 people per year.

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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#166470

Collection label and suspension wire on verso. Intact and excellent with vibrant pigments.