Henry Green, a Tsimshian artist born and raised in Port Simpson, BC, is known for his silver and gold jewelry as well as his wood carvings. His daughter, Morgan Asoyuf, is also an accomplished artist.

In the present work, the chip-carved body and arms evoke the adzing technique seen in monumental works, lending this model-sized carving a remarkable presence. Despite its scale, the bear captures the compact strength and serene watchfulness of a full-sized work. Its form is meticulously balanced, with the hands and claws deliberately placed on the stomach, framing the central plane and adding a striking symmetry. Dated 1980, this early yet accomplished work reflects the artist's emerging skill, which was honed during his time at the Emily Carr College of Art and Design in Vancouver, BC, where he began carving in the 1980s.