Crest Headdress

This animated headdress was worn at social ceremonies to display an inherited family crest. Hollowed out on the underside to sit directly on top of the head, this type of headdress evolved from classic war helmets worn by Northern Northwest Coast peoples in the 18th century, and later clan hats of the early 19th century. 

Almost all Northwest Coast sculpture is ambiguous in nature, and therefore difficult to identify without firsthand knowledge from the original owner. At first glance, the large canine-like front teeth manufactured from trade copper would suggest a beaver, however, the absence of a crosshatched tail, a primary identifying feature, would indicate otherwise. The use of line dashing on the body in white and red pigments to suggest the long reddish-brown hair of the grizzly bear is a notable Tsimshian characteristic, and the most likely interpretation of this charming and engaging headdress.