Robert Davidson began his career carving in wood and argillite (see Lot 77 for an early argillite example by the artist) but quickly expanded his repertoire to include a wide array of mediums, including cast bronze. The present work, Dunee, illustrates a brilliant translation of Davidson’s masterly mask-making into the ostensibly non-traditional medium of bronze sculpting. In addition we see Davidson’s experimentation with simplifying yet wholly maintaining the integrity of the Haida formline design. Cast in a limited edition of twelve, Dunee is a portrait mask of the artist’s brother, Reg Davidson, who himself is a highly respected artist. This knowledge makes this work a most intimate and enduring subject.

References: For the first major publication discussing Robert Davidson’s art and career see the exhibition catalogue by Ian M. Thom, editor, Robert Davidson: Eagle of the Dawn, (Vancouver: Vancouver Art Gallery/Douglas & McIntyre, 1993); See also Ulli Steltzer and Robert Davidson, Eagle Transforming: The Art of Robert Davidson, (Vancouver: Douglas & McIntyre, 1994).