Posted 12 years ago
emersonest…
(123 items)
I have done some research on this piece and it appears to be a grease bowl carved out of Argillite. I was wondering if anyone knew if this piece was old or not. Maybe someone might know the artist or anything else because I don't have a clue.
Could anyone please help me out with some more information about this pieces; age, period, maker, country of origin, value, name of items, process used to make them, etc?
Thanks a bunch, all input is appreciated.
You could try Len Woods Indian Territory online. They do free appraisals, I think it is 5 free ones but they also do more in depth appraisals for insurance purposes, ect. They are very well known. Put in a search online for Len Woods and you will see Indian Territory in the first three or so hits. You will need to send pics, close up and clear. They tell you on the site what they need from you. Really nice piece!
Interesting piece. Argillite is a black, slate-like stone found only in the Queen Charlotte Islands, British Columbia, Canada. All the deposits belong only to the Haida natives (Haida Gwai). If it is true argillite, it is likely carved by a local craftsman. But when? Try asking Richard of richmojoegallery.com; he has a very good handle on argillite carvers and historical pieces. Be aware that 'faux' argillite exists, synthetically copied material, like plastic. True argillite, like stone, will be cool to the touch; try holding it against your cheek. The right stuff will feel cold; the fake stuff will feel more like room temperature. Your piece looks to be a seal. I'm a bit surprised at the size of the head in relation to the body, and that it's not a bit more elongated. But, then, art is all about interpretation. You might also try contacting Leona Lattimer Gallery in Vancouver. Good luck.
I have purchased items from richmojoe on Ebay a few times. Nice guy.