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Enlarge Cover
list price: $55.00
edition:Hardcover
category: Art
published: Jul 2007
ISBN:9781553653325
publisher:
Douglas & McIntyre
Description
This stunning catalogue celebrates the remarkable return of 36 masterpieces of Tsimshian art collected in northern British Columbia more than 40 years ago.
In October 1863, Reverend Robert J. Dundas of Scotland purchased eighty "ceremonial objects" that missionary William Duncan of Old Metlakatla (near Prince Rupert) had acquired from the local Natives. The collection, including carved clubs, masks, rattles and headdresses, remained in the Dundas family until October 2006, when it was put on the block at auction in New York and sold for over $7 million.
This sumptuous book features fifty full-colour plates and four essays on these masterworks of Northwest Coast art, all honouring an extraordinary moment in Canadian cultural history.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 13
- Grade:
- 8
Editorial Reviews
"'It is like a time capsule has been found and we have just opened it,' says the Tsimshian weaver, William White, in writing about the repatriated Dundas Collection. 'What was found inside is a part of Tsimshian identity that was taken away but has found its way home after a long absence. The frustrations of many have been expressed in various statements. Why was this stuff allowed to be sold at auction when it was simply taken from us? It should be given back to the Tsimshian people.'"
— Ottawa Citizen
"Tsimshian Treasures...correctly delves into the sad and long history of the attempts of the Tsimshian to bring these treasures and artifacts home. Tellingly the collection has the moniker of its longtime custodian, Dundas, not that of the original creators of these magnificent pieces of native Canadian history. Art is such a significant part of culture. Following the history of the important works is a wonderful catalog of the items beautifully photographed and explained."
— International Art Treasures Online Magazine
