Religion case object 4: "Totem-Pole"

Date1900-1933

MediumWood

DimensionsObject/Work: 228 x 47 x 42 mm

ClassificationsReligious/Ritual Equipment

Terms

Object numberLDCUM1933.005

DescriptionVery little is known about this object and how it came to be in the collection. Notes tell us it was donated to the Cuming museum in the 1930s by a Mr H. C. Smith.

It is a miniature totem pole thought to be from the indigenous comunities of the north west coast of Canada. It is carved of wood and painted white, black, red, green and yellow. The decoration includes the figures of 3 animals: frog, bear and one unidentified animal. It has writing on the back on a red background. The writing on the top back is illegible at the moment but the middle reads: 'Frog for patience', and bottom: 'Bear. Courage'.

If you have any further information on anything to do with this opbject we always welcome new details and people's stories, so please get in touch.

This object is on display at the Southwark Heritage Centre and Walworth Library, 145-147 Walworth Road, London SE17 1FZ.

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