This large and impressive argillite pole illustrates the story of the Waasgo, or the Lazy-Son-in-Law. The pole features, from the top: frog; the mother-in-law in her shamanic regalia with headdress, circular rattles, and apron; the head of a whale; and the Waasgo consuming a whale. This pole is very finely carved and has some interesting features not typically found on model poles. In particular, the two-dimensional formline elements and crosshatching on the shaft of the pole behind the mother-in-law figure are reminiscent of earlier argillite platters. The Waasgo is also nicely executed with well-developed arms and elegantly etched formline designs under its arms, in its flukes, and in its ears. Interestingly, the Waasgo also has a wolf tail, which may help identify where in Haida Gwaii this pole was made.

Christopher W. Smith