This Spirit of Thunderbird mask has been hand-carved by Nuu-Chah-Nulth artist Tim Paul. It has been carved in red cedar, painted in white and black acrylic, and has been signed and dated by the artist.

The Thunderbird Symbol represents power, protection, and strength. He is often seen as the most powerful of all spirits and can also transform into human form by opening his head up like a mask and taking his feathers off as if they were a mere blanket. Under his wings are lightning snakes, which he can use as a tool or weapon.

Find more information about and examples of  Northwest Coast First Nations symbol.

Hear Tim tell the story behind this mask:  

The mask measures approximately 18 1/2 inches or 47 centimeters high, 19 inches or 48 1/2 centimeters wide, and about 6 1/2 inches or 16 1/2 centimeters deep.

The last image shows Tim holding the mask.