Magnificent and haunting, the tall cedar sculptures called totem poles
have become a distinctive symbol of the native people of the Northwest
Coast. The powerful carvings of the vital and extraordinary beings such
as Sea Bear, Thunderbird and Cedar Man are impressive and intriguing.
Looking at Totem Poles is an indispensable guide to 110 poles in
easily acessible outdoor locations in coastal British Columbia and
Alaska. In clear and lively prose, Hilary Stewart describes the various
types of poles, their purpose, and how they were carved and raised. She
also identifies and explains frequently depicted figures and objects.
Each pole, shown in a beautifully detailed drawing, is accompanied by a
text that points out the crests, figures and objects carved on it.
Historical and cultural background are given, legends are recounted and
often the carver's comments or anecdotes enrich the pole's story.
Photographs put some of the poles into context or show their carving and
raising.
This book is a companion volume to Hilary Stewart's enormously
successful Looking at Indian Art of the Northwest Coast.