First Nations, British Columbia, Vancouver Island, Squamish Band of the Coast Salish First Nation, by Eric Baker (active XX-XXI century) who in addition to Squamish is also of Kwakiutl (Kwakwaka'wakw) descent with indigenous roots in Kingcome Inlet. Signed and dated 1990 on verso. Expertly hand-carved from yellow cedar and finely hand-painted, a beautiful hawk mask by Squamish First Nation artist Eric Baker. The mask presents a striking visage with classic Northwest Coast features including heavy black brows, wide open eyes delineated in black and white emerging from a turquoise background, a boldly protruding hooked beak/nose of turquoise, red, black, and white hues; red lips surrounded by a white ground; stylized motifs of black, white, and turquoise hues adorning cheeks and jawline, and openwork pupils, nostrils, and mouth. Size: 10.625" L x 7.5" W (27 cm x 19 cm)

The Hawk Mask is traditionally used during a Kwakiutl winter ceremony by an initiated member of a secret society. Hawks symbolize power, courage, and strength and are thus considered to be guardians. They are also believed to serve as messengers between the living and their ancestors.

Eric Baker began learning the fine art of woodcarving and painting when he was eight years old. His inspirations were carvers Hank Thomas and Marvin Baker. Eric is a member of the Squamish Band of the Coast Salish Nation, and he is also of Kwakwaka’wakw descent, with indigenous roots in Kingcome Inlet. He grew up in North Vancouver and still lives in British Columbia. Following the traditions of his ancestors, Eric prefers to work in red and yellow cedar. He has carved masks like this example as well as ornate totem poles, including one for a school in Squamish, British Columbia.

Provenance: private Louisville, Colorado, USA collection

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#174159

Overall excellent. Minor scuffs to upper right edge of blue paint below brow. Nearly invisible slight separations to white paint following the vertical wood grain on forehead. "Hawk Mask / ERIC BAKER / Squamish Tribe / North Vancouver B.C. /90" handwritten on verso. Fitted with suspension cord and ready to display.