Haida Portrait Figure, Northwest Coast

standing with naturalistic feet in low relief on the underside, wearing a pleated garment with long sleeves and u-shaped neckline over a petticoat, and holding a round, perforated disk, possibly a spindle whorl, in her right hand, the masterfully carved head with a small pronounced chin, aquiline nose, finely modelled broad cheekbones, slightly exaggerated, engraved pointed oval eye rims centering circular pupils, below arching brows, and long striated coiffure parted down the center of the crown and falling to loose curls around the shoulders; remains of red and black pigment, and a rich patina overall.

Property of an English Gentleman
Sotheby's New York, May 15, 2003, lot 188, consigned by the above
Myron Kunin, Minneapolis, acquired at the above auction

Very good original condition with typical wear to the surface including light abrasion. There are two minor and very fine hairline splits on the back of the skirt, that are stable. Exquisitely carved.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a discussion of Haida portraiture in wood and related examples see Phelps, 1976, p. 307: "Sensitive portraiture was well within the scope of the Northwest Coast artists...The two figures, part of a dozen made in the 1820s, are beautifully serene and naturalistic studies." Also see Coe, 1977, no. 305 said to represent a chief and his wife. For a closely related example in the Clare and Eugene Thaw Collection see Vincent, 1995, p. 79. Finally, see Sotheby's New York, May 2009, lot 201 for related examples from the Wellington Collection.