ELI TAIT (1872-1949) TSIMSHIAN, METLAKATLA, ALASKA
each mounted on a later-added base and drilled for wiring, allowing conversion into lamp stands: 10.5 x 5.25 x 5.25 in (26.7 x 13.3 x 13.3 cm)
each signed and inscribed, "Eli Tait / Metlakatla / Alaska".
ESTIMATE: $2,500 — $3,500
Born in Old Metlakatla, BC, Eli Tait was one of the original Tsimshian followers of Reverend William Duncan who relocated in 1887 from British Columbia to Annette Island, Alaska. Living with severe arthritis in his joints prevented him from working in the fishing or timber industries, instead relying on his carving abilities to make a living. Tait was among the first Indigenous carvers from the Northwest Coast to consistently sign their work, a practice that has helped make him a popular artist among collectors.
This pair of Brown Bear figures feature Tait's iconic dashing to represent fur on their bodies. Like the Bears carved on his larger "Good Luck" model poles (see Lot 116), these have been depicted with their paws in an upward gesture with human faces carved into them. The overall fineness of the Bear figures and painting likely point to an earlier production date by Tait.
CWS
Provenance
Private Collection;Acquired from the above by the present Private Collection, Toronto, 13 June 2014.
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