Description

This exquisitely carved and highly decorated Kwaguʼł Raven, Whale and Sisiutl Totem Pole by Kwakwaka wakw artist Kevin Daniel Cranmer is carved in yellow cedar and painted in red, blue, and black acrylic. The pole is adorned with over 40 pieces of abalone and features 8 brass ovoids – two on the Raven s wings, two on the Orca s eyes, two as the Sisiutl s eyebrows, and two as the Sisiutl s eyes.

Mischievous and curious, the Raven plays many important roles in Pacific Northwest Coast Culture. For some, he symbolizes creation, transformation, knowledge, prestige as well as the complexity of nature and the subtlety of truth. He also symbolizes the unknown and shows that every person sees the world in a different way.

Find more information about and examples of The Raven Northwest Coast First Nations symbol.

The Orca or Killer Whale symbolizes family, romance, longevity, harmony, travel, community and protection. He is said to protect those who travel away from home, and to lead them back when the time comes. Orcas will often stay their whole life with the same pod and raise each calf with care.

Find more information about and examples of The Orca Killer Whale Northwest Coast First Nations symbol.

The Sisiutl or Sea Serpent symbolizes protection, supernatural power and revival. It is one of the most powerful symbols in Kwakwaka’wakw culture. The Sisiutl Sisiulth is a supernatural three-headed serpent that possesses shapeshifting abilities and the ability to turn spectators into stone when gazed upon.

Find more information about and examples of The Sisiutl Northwest Coast First Nations symbol.

This pole is about 15.5 inches or nearly 39 centimeters wide, over 15 inches or 38 centimeters high, and with the stand is 5.5 inches or 14 centimeters deep. The beak of the raven is articulated and opens and closes by pulling the handle and string on the reverse side of the sculpture.

Kevin Cranmer is renowned for his highly intricate miniature masks and poles that capture the richness of Kwakwaka wakw art and ceremonialism. 

The pole was carved in 2008 and has been in a private collection until now. The last image shows the artist Kevin Cranmer with the totem pole.