$2,500
shipping is free to Canada and United States Mike is proudly holding the mask to show you his joy of finishing it and also the size of it Incredible huge Ridicule mask carved in yellow cedar by Nisgaa artist Mike Dangeli.Measures 23" in height, 14" in width and 11" in depth. Traditional colors and beautiful detail make this mask a must for the most discerning collector. A long time ago the Kwaguilth people of northern Vancouver Island held a huge potlatch. Chiefs were invited from all the villages to the north and south to come and witness the songs and dances that the Kwaguilth people possessed. During the potlatch the chiefs were given a chance to speak to the audience. They each spoke in turn of their own home's virtues. Some proclaimed to have the largest Salmon, or the finest bighouse, or the most beautiful women. When it came to a northern chief's turn he strode into the center of the house and held a large jar above his head. He proclaimed that he owned the largest supply of ooligan oil. This oil is made from the Ooligan fish, sometimes called the candle fish because it is so oily that when it is dried out you can light 1 end and it will burn like a candle. The oil is very flammable and considered very valuable. The Chief extolled about his wealth and to show his power he threw the jar into the fire, where it exploded. The fire leapt up and burned 1 side of his face. Since then the Kwaguilth have made the Ridicule Mask to represent the danger of losing sight of our humility and to remind us that we suffer the consequences of our own actions. Mike Dangeli Mike Dangeli is of the Nisga’a, Tlingit, Tsetsaut, and Tsimshian Nations. He belongs to the Beaver Clan and carries the names Goothl Ts’imilx (Heart of the Beaver House)and Teettlien (Big Wave). Mike currently lives in Vancouver, BC where he founded the House of Culture: Art and Carving Studio . The programs that he organized in the House of Culture sought a holistic approach to teaching Northwest Coast art to urban 1st Nations children, youth, and adults through classes, workshops and seminars. The House of Culture also functions as Mike’s studio where he creates his art for commissions, galleries, and ceremonial pieces for his community. Working primarily as a commission based artist, Mike’s works include masks, drums, regalia, paintings, and limited edition silk-screened prints. In 2007, Mike completed twelve totem poles and a thirty-foot ocean going canoe Striving to expand his understanding of and ability in carving, painting and design, Mike always honors opportunities to learn from Master Carvers such as: Beau Dick, Simon Dick, Robert Davidson, Reg Davidson, Henry Greene, Lyle Campbell, and many others. He has also held 2 major apprenticeships with Master Carvers: Randy Adams, and David Boxley. &
