Symbolizing great concentrations of wealth and prestige, coppers, or tlakwa, are publicly displayed on ceremonial occasions. Among the Kwakwaka’wakw, these copper plaques are cut or broken and the pieces are distributed to rivals as a means of intimidation through a show of wealth. Visual evidence indicates that this copper had been broken into multiple sections, then pieced back together with rivets along the ridge. The painted killer whale crest design reflects a more recent addition, perhaps applied over an earlier rendering. Coppers are esteemed items, and their ceremonial transfer remains part of dowry negotiations for the Kwakawa’wakw.

• Collection History Provenance

  The Elizabeth Cole Butler Collection.

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• Type of Item copper
• Culture Kwakwaka'wakw
• Material copper metal, metal rivet, pigment
• Measurements height 24.5 in, width 13.375 in (overall)

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• Creator Kwakwaka'wakw artist

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• Made in Northwest Coast, Northwest Coast

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• Creation Date during 1885

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• Categories Northwest Coast; Ceremonial and Ritual Objects