Description
According to the legends of Canada’s aboriginal peoples, every person has a "totem", which are special characteristics they share with an animal, plant or inanimate object and which define their personal identity within their family and clan.
The main figure here is a chief holding a talking stick in one hand and a copper in the other. The copper is the symbol of prosperity. Above the talking stick is an eagle, the totem for the people of Fort Rupert, British Columbia. The chief is welcoming a visitor to his village. He is enveloped by a raven that is carrying an eagle in its tail. The guest is standing below the walking stick and is wearing a woven hat and chilkat blanket.
The Big House in the background is where the community gathers to perform its customs. The design on the front of the house is a Sea Monster, the totem for Mungo Martin, Dr. Hunt's grandfather. Mr. Martin was a significant force in reviving the traditional arts of the northwest Pacific Coast. The mountains are those of Vancouver Island. They also represent a family of ravens, the totem for the Hunt family.
