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Canada
Explore The Royal Family's close relationship with the region, as well as the diverse artistic traditions represented in the Royal Collection
Salish Welcome Figure
1994Cedar and bark | 75.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 74171
This figure is a model of the large anthropomorphic welcome figures used in a potlatch, a First Nations ceremony of feasting, gift-giving and wealth redistribution. Guests arriving in a village are greeted by figures of this kind, often depicted with arms outstretched or shading their eyes as if looking out across the water for arrivals.
Doug LaFortune is a master carver from the Tsawout people of the Coast Salish First Nation, north-western Canada.