Description: Extremely rare and exceptionally woven 20th C Nuu Chah Nulth Whaler’s Hat (a.ka. “Maquinna”). This twine knobbed top hat was woven with a warp of split western red cedar bark. In extremely fine - museum quality- condition. Hats of this type were typically worn only by chiefs. Similar hats nearly 3000 years old have been found archaeologically, evidence of the length of time rank may have characterized coast culture. The knob at the top of the hat is very important because Chiefs and Whalers would put eagle down or other sacred objects in there to help guide them. The elaborate design represents stylized whaling scenes that are woven into the fabric of the hat. In each scene, the harpooner stands at the bow of the canoe. The whale has been hit and trails a harpoon line with floats attached. On the other side is an eagle like bird grasping an arrow in its talons. This basket is characteristic of the most famous master weavers such as Rhoda Mack (Ahousaht), Jessie Webster (Ahousaht) , Lena Jumbo (Ahousaht) and Alice Paul (Hesquiaht). This is one of the finest examples of hats to be found, most only held in Museum collections. Circa 1900’s Height 10 3/4” Provenance: Private collection Chicago Please refer to photos to get the accurate details of this basket. Please view my other items for sale that include an extremely rare grass Nuu Chah Nulth Whaler’s (Maquinna) hat woven by famed master weaver Alice Paul (Hesquiaht) as well as other fine northwest coast items.
Price: 6250 USD
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota
End Time: 2025-01-11T19:50:53.000Z
Shipping Cost: 45 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Provenance: Ownership History Available
Tribal Affiliation: Makah or Nuu-chah-nulth - Nootka
Culture: Native American: US
