Whale Figure c. 19th century

This 19th-century Tlingit "Whale Figure" is a striking example of Northwest Coast art. The piece is carved from wood and painted in a vibrant palette of red, black, and blue. It depicts a whale in a stylized, almost abstract form. The figure’s prominent eyes and exaggerated features are typical of Tlingit artistic traditions, often used to represent powerful spirit beings and emphasize their supernatural qualities. The "Whale Figure" is a testament to the artistic mastery of the Tlingit people, known for their intricate carvings and symbolic imagery.