Tlakwa (Copper)
Kwakwaka'wakw artist, Tlakwa (Copper), ca. 1890, copper, metal rivets, and pigment, The Elizabeth Cole Butler Collection, no known copyright restrictions, 87.88.65
This work is not currently on view.
- Title
Tlakwa (Copper)
- Artist
- Date
ca. 1890
- Medium
copper, metal rivets, and pigment
- Dimensions (H x W x D)
24 1/2 in x 13 3/8 in
- Collection Area
Native American Art
- Category
Northwest Coast
Ceremonial and Ritual Objects
- Object Type
copper
- Cultural Group
Kwakwaka'wakw
- Credit Line
The Elizabeth Cole Butler Collection
- Accession Number
87.88.65
- Copyright
no known copyright restrictions
- Terms
Northwest Coast Native American styles
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.
