Kurtis Antone (First Nations / Canadian, Squamish, b. 1970). "Sim'oogit / Chief's Mask" painted wood with horsehair, ca. 20th to 21st century. Signed with title, culture, location, and number "1971" on verso. An evocative cedar mask hand-carved by Squamish artist Kurtis Anotone and titled "Sim'oogit Mask" or "Chief's Mask" as sim'oogit translates to chief. Painted in hues of black, red, and green, the haunting vizard features giant eyes, a broad nose, and full lips, all crowned by 9 projecting tufts of horsehair and a headdress in the form of a frog. Size: 7.7" W x 13.1" H (19.6 cm x 33.3 cm)

Born in North Vancouver, British Columbia in 1970, Kurtis Antone took a keen interest in wood carving at the age of 8 years old. He would carve under the guidance and direction of his brothers Roger and Mike Antone. He has been carving since 1988 and Kurtis is an adaptable artist who primarily uses red and yellow cedar for his medium. Aside from his brothers, his teachers were Pat Natrall Sr. and Percy Paul. Both these master carvers have passed away and left Kurtis the knowledge of the heritage of the design he uses. Kurtis has developed his own unique West Coast style, incorporating images of animals that come from family crests and legends common to the Coast Salish Community. These stories and myths have been his inspiration throughout his carving years. In the last few years, he has created some very special large carvings, like transformation masks and sun masks, as well as large eagle head mask. His work presents itself very impressive. His carving and painting are clean and his choice of creation is always unique. He hopes each piece of his art would bring the collectors joy and wisdom. His work can be found in private collections throughout Canada and the United States.

Provenance: private Alamo, California, USA collection, before 2000

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#180535

Signed with title, culture, location, and number "1971" on verso. Some losses to horsehair and a few minor nicks to wood, but imagery is still very clear. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice remaining pigments. Suspension wire on verso for display.