Codfish Lure with Wolf Design, c. 1970 by Simon Charlie (1919-2005), Cowichan

Old Style Codfish Lure with Wolf Design, c. 1970 by Simon Charlie (1919-2005), Cowichanred cedar, pigment, twine4.5” tall x 13.5” long x 3” deep8.5” tall on standIndigenous method of catching halibut on the northwest coast of North America mixes expert craftsmanship with spirituality. The practice of making halibut hooks has been handed down through the generations. Carvers used their hands to determine the angles and dimensions, which some believe allowed them to target fish of different sizes. This hook depicts a wolf, which has profound significance to the tribes of the West Coast. Wolves represent power and prestige, strength and dignity, and are the central figure in the Winter ceremonial dances. Simon Charlie (Hwunumetse’ in his native Hul’q’umi’num’ language), was born in 1920 near Duncan, British Columbia. He was a member of the Cowichan Tribes, which constitute the largest single First Nation Band in British Columbia. Much like the renowned Susan Point, Simon’s work played a s