A GROUP OF THREE NORTH AMERICAN INDIGENOUS CARVED SLATE (ARGILLITE) TOTEMS

A GROUP OF THREE NORTH AMERICAN INDIGENOUS CARVED SLATE (ARGILLITE) TOTEMS, likely Haida (Northwest Coast) peoples, each of tapered form modelled with series of animals over a square base

Dimension: the largest 13.5cm high

Note: A similar totem can be found in the Royal Collection Trust.

During the mid-19^th century, Haida peoples carved small totems such as this after colonial authorities banned ceremonies like the potlach.

Objects such as these, therefore helped to preserve traditional art forms and stories.