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Frog

Frog is a creature of great importance in the Northwest Coast art and culture. As a creature that lives in two worlds, water and land, the frog is revered for its adaptability, knowledge and power to traverse worlds and inhabit diverse realms, both natural and supernatural. Frogs are primary spirit helpers of shamans. Frog is a great communicator, and often represents the common ground or voice of the people. These are vocal, singing creatures, and the voice and song are believed to contain divine power and magic. In the art, Frog is often shown sharing its tongue or touching tongues with another creature in an exchange of knowledge and power. The Frog, although not found in the territory of the northern Indians, plays a significant part in their mythology. It has been suggested that the lore of the frog came with their ancestors from Asia. A wide toothless mouth, flat nose, and showing feet and toes usually portray the Frog.

 

Understanding Northwest Coast Art - Cheryl Shearar