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Artworks
RUSSELL SMITH (1950-2011) KWAKWA̱KA̱ʼWAKW
Atlakim Doorkeeper Mask, May 1980carved and painted wood, 19.5 x 15.5 x 5.5 in (49.5 x 39.4 x 14 cm)
titled, signed, and dated, "R. / SMITH (AWASATLAS) / KWAGIUTL / 5/80".
LOT 90
ESTIMATE: $3,000 — $5,000
PRICE REALIZED: $2,688.00Further images
The Atlakim (also known as the Dance of the Forest Spirits) is one of the four main dances performed during Kwakwaka’wakw Winter Ceremonials. It tells the story of a boy...The Atlakim (also known as the Dance of the Forest Spirits) is one of the four main dances performed during Kwakwaka’wakw Winter Ceremonials. It tells the story of a boy who gets lost in the woods and subsequently is visited by many guiding spirits who teach him various virtues. One of these spirits is the Doorkeeper, or Door, and is personified here by Russell Smith’s skilled eye. Smith’s upbringing and extensive study of the ancient and traditional designs of his Kwakwaka’wakw heritage no doubt influenced this striking image.
References: For a historical example of an Atlakim doorkeeper mask see Audrey Hawthorn, Kwakiutl Art, (Vancouver: Douglas & McIntyre, 1988), fig. 248. For additional information on the artist, see: Peter L. Macnair, Alan L. Hoover, & Kevin Neary, The Legacy: Tradition and Innovation in Northwest Coast Indian Art, (Vancouver: Douglas & MacIntyre: Vancouver, 1984), p. 187.
Provenance
A Montreal Collection.
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