-
Artworks
RICHARD BEDWASH (1936-2007) ANISHINAABE (OJIBWE)
The Legend of the Beaver, 1984acrylic on canvas, 20 x 16 in (50.8 x 40.6 cm), framed
signed and dated, "ᐃᐁᓗᑌᓯ / /84";
signed and dated again, "R. BEDWASH. /84."
inscribed by the artist in blue ink, verso, "that long ago the beaver chop / trees to the elder" [struck]";
titled, dated, and further inscribed by the artist in blue ink, verso, "the legend of the Beaver ) 84 / the legend speaks about Beaver / that long ago the Beaver chop down / trees to the Elder indian [sic] people so that / they Could Build the homes for there [sic] family / also the Beaver is represent [sic] medicine to / the medicine men in our times. / Richard. Bedwash. / June 6/36" (the artist's birthday).LOT 74
ESTIMATE: $400 — $600
PRICE REALIZED: $960.00Further images
As Bedwash's lengthy inscription implies, Beavers are important animals in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Anishinaabeg. In some narratives, the beaver's industrious behavior, exemplified in its dam and...As Bedwash's lengthy inscription implies, Beavers are important animals in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Anishinaabeg. In some narratives, the beaver's industrious behavior, exemplified in its dam and lodge construction, symbolizes resourcefulness, perseverance, and adaptability. In the traditional story of The Woman Who Married a Beaver, a key element is the reciprocal relationship that exists between the Anishinaabe peoples and
the beavers. This harmonious relationship speaks to the sense of balance—a key principle in Anishinaabe medicine, representing the delicate equilibrium between physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
Provenance
Private Collection, Ontario;
Bequeathed to the present Private Collection, Hamilton.
Join Our Mailing List