Pacific Northwest Native Canadian Art Raven

By Clint Leung

The most important symbol to many Pacific Northwest Native
Canadian people is the Raven bird who is considered the
Creator's assistant. It is said that the Raven could transform
himself into anything. He was responsible for supplying the
rivers and seas with fish as well as putting the sun into the
sky. This is why the Raven is sometimes referred to as the
'Bringer of Light'. Interestingly enough, the Raven's antics
were thought to be motivated by greed. It was also said that he
loved to tease and trick which gave him the reputation of being
the trickster. Despite his selfishness, the Raven is also a
cultural hero since his mischievous actions always helped the
world.

According to one Pacific Northwest Native Canadian legend, an
old chief hid the sun away in a box. The Raven transformed into
a pine needle which dropped into the drinking water which the
chief's daughter drank. She became pregnant and a son was born.
One day, the chief finally gave into the Raven's (now disguised
as his grandson) whining and allowed him to play with the sun in
the box. Once the box was outside, the Raven broke it and
transformed back to his original bird form. He then took the sun
into his beak and flew up to the sky putting the sun back in its
right place.

According to the Pacific Northwest Native Canadian people,
gifts featuring the prestigious Raven symbol are appropriate for
someone respected or considered a hero.

About the Author: Clint Leung is owner of Free Spirit Gallery
http://www.FreeSpiritGallery.ca , an online gallery specializing
in Inuit Eskimo and Northwest Native American art including
carvings, sculpture and prints. Free Spirit Gallery has
numerous information resource articles with photos of authentic
Inuit and Native Indian art as well as free eCards.

Source: http://www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=4099&ca=Culture