Talking Stick Yellow Cedar Totem Pole Design Native American Staff

Description

This listing is for one made-to-order yellow cedar talking stick by Coast Salish First Nations artist Jim Yelton. The talking stick depicted here shows 'Eagle', 'Bear', and 'Wolf'. It measures 33" x 2 1/2" x 2 1/2". Please note that every carving is unique and will look different. For example, Jim often carves feathers onto the handles, which represent actual eagle feathers that are frequently tied to functional staffs.
Please email us for other options. We have talking sticks that range between 0-0 that are all different lengths.
The following symbols are common in Jim's talking sticks:
Eagle - friendship
Raven - creation
Wolf - family
Bear - authority
Orca - communication
Beaver - creativity
For generations, ceremonial staffs have been in use. It is known that they are an important and respected badge of the Speaker or Chief during potlatches and other occasions. The talking stick is held by the Chief or highest ranked member of those present, or by the Chief’s Orator. The Orator is either an elected or hereditary official who would reside in the household of the lineage Chief. Any other person wishing to address the assembly would take possession of the talking stick during their speech. Whoever held the stick had the right to speak and everyone present would respectfully listen. Various crest symbols are carved on each talking stick. Deer hooves on the bottom of talking sticks represent real deer hooves, used originally to clack together to gain the attention of the guests. The Chief, wrapped in a blanket, signifies the most important and powerful figure in the tribe at the gathering. The figure of the Chief has the same meaning as the Chief wrapped in a blanket.
Keywords: "model totem pole", "Haida sculpture", "rain stick", "native peace pipe", "native indian dreamcatcher", "loki staff", "cigar indian"