Nuu-chah-Nulth/Ditidaht watchmen and mosquito totem pole by Ray Williams (1933-1988). 14"W, 26"H with base. Raymond “Ray” Williams was a prominent and important carver who innovated many of the distinctive features that are associated today with the Williams family of carvers. Building on the familial style established by his father, Sam Williams (c. 1884-1979), and older brother, Wilson Williams (1908-1965), Ray created a distinctive mix of customary Nuu-chah-nulth styles, Northern forms and subject matter, and imaginative, exaggerated features that he painted in bright paints. As the father of the current generation of elder master carvers from this family, Ray’s style of carving and painting was highly influential on how Williams family artwork looks today. This well-carved model totem pole reflects Ray’s mature style, with bold painted forms, large white eyes and teeth, and carved formal elements that are less busy than his earlier work. This pole also reflects Ray’s mastery of his pierced carving technique, with all of the extremities of the figures being fully carved out. This lends a graceful elegance to the pole and creates a complex composition. The pole features, from the top: Three Watchmen figures, Mosquito with a Human face on the chest, Wolverine, and a Human figure holding a Whale. The pole is mounted on a chamfered double base and signed on the verso.

PERIOD: Early 20th Century

ORIGIN: Northwest - Nuu-chah-Nulth, Native American

SIZE: 14"W, 26"H with base