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Wolf

The wolf features strongly in both Indian and Inuit lore as a successful hunter. Once the object of fear among the white settlers and shot by bounty hunters, the wolf is becoming better understood and more appreciated, both in Canada and Alaska, and is depicted in art throughout the north. In Indian designs an elongated snout with flaring nostrils, large teeth and ears, and a curled tail identifies the wolf. The Wolf is a significant family crest and myth figure among some of the native peoples of the Northwest Coast. It is considered the land equivalent of the killer whale because of the parallels between the species' social behavior - traveling in packs and stalking prey. Natives of the Northwest Coast respect the wolf for its strength, agility, intelligence and capacity for devotion. The wolf's range and communicative powers are impressive. People traditionally believe in the potency and magic of speech and song. Revered because it was a good hunter, the wolf was often associated with a special spiritual power that a man had to acquire to become a successful hunter. In some legends, four wolf cubs survived the "Great Flood" by climbing to the peak of a high mountain. After the waters receded, they howled loudly to find out if any other survivors existed. Humans heard the cries, and the young wolves entered the human community. Other myths and legends recount similar tales of adoption by wolves (and of wolves). Wolf Mother is sometimes depicted with a human child.

 

Understanding Northwest Coast Art - Cheryl Shearar