Sold for: $19,000

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Seattle

LITERATURE
Martine J. Reid, Bill Reid Collected, 2016, the 1983 boxwood sculpture entitled Killer Whale reproduced page 118, the 1984 bronze sculpture entitled Killer Whale on Wave Base reproduced page 124, and the 1984 large-scale bronze sculpture entitled Killer Whale, Chief of the Undersea World reproduced page 126

This exquisite small silver sculpture of Bill Reid's iconic killer whale is part of a small group of works with this motif executed in various sizes, scales and mediums—including the progenitor 1983 carved boxwood sculpture, a 1984 larger bronze (lot 214 in The Peter and Joanne Brown Collection sale) and the monumental sculpture in the collection of the Vancouver Aquarium. Reid started in small scale first, then proceeded through successive stages to the larger works. In this silver piece can be seen Reid's high accomplishment in casting in precious metals. Reid trained as a jeweller, producing fine works with Haida motifs as well as his own contemporary designs, both cast and carved. Symmetry, precision and perfection of detail are intrinsic qualities of this work. The leaping killer whale form expresses the strength and power of this fierce hunter, and its sense of freedom in moving through the sea. Its dorsal fin, elongated and embellished with shapes, has a totemic presence.

In Chief of the Undersea World, Reid brings us into contact with Haida mythology, enriching our contemporary understanding of this fascinating creature.

Please note: this work comes with a base that measures 1 1/4 x 2 3/4 x 1 7/8 inches.

All prices are in Canadian Dollars