Vintage monumental Folk Art totem pole. This monumental folk-art pole features a Thunderbird atop two other figures, perhaps Bear and Wolf. Like other non-Indigenous hobbyist pieces from this era, the highly stylized and often crude carving methods of these poles can make identifying individual figures challenging. The Thunderbird figure on this pole is especially compelling, with an innovative and unique way of representing the wings with painted slats on boards. The angle of the wings and spaces between the slats create an interesting profile and lines for the pole. Like the other large-scale folk-art poles offered here, this pole was made in the context of totem poles becoming pop culture symbols of the American West, when American families became interested in exploring their own country by car in post-WWII America. This transition to an iconic pop cultural status for totem poles, combined with the mid-20th century fascination with scouting crafts and Tiki bar culture, meant that many large-scale poles were carved by hobbyists and woodworkers during this era. Please note: In compliance with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, this pole is not Native made and is instead presented as a hobbyist work of folk art. 10'6"'H; wings 5' wide

This is a large or fragile item, so shipping will not calculate on our website. Please contact the Gallery at (208) 769-7575; [email protected] to get a shipping quote, or to purchase.

PERIOD: Mid 20th Century

ORIGIN: Northwest - Unknown, United States

SIZE: 10'6"'H; wings 5' wide