This hand carved yellow cedar Thunderbird Talking Stick by Salish artist by Doug Horne features, from top to bottom:
Thunderbird:
“Thunderbird is the illustrious ancestor of many prominent human lineages and a proud, and powerful noble being in myths throughout the Northwest Coast. Thunderbird is a giant supernatural bird named for his habit of carrying thunder and lighting. Beneath his wings he carries Lighting Snakes, which are his weapons. Thunder rolls from the flap of his wings, and lighting flashes when he blinks his great eyes or throws Lighting Snakes. He is large and strong enough to hunt Killer Whale[s], which he strikes dead with the wolf-headed serpent-tongued Lighting snakes. Thunderbird carries his prey high into the mountains to feed. From his home [at] these great heights, Thunderbird rules majestically, keeping a close watch over his dominion” (Shearar 2000: 104). – Understanding Northwest Coast Art: A Guide to Crests, Beings and Symbols
Killer Whale:
“The first whale came into being when they were carved in wood by Raven and then magically infused with a life force. Killer Whale is a very important crest and mythic being among the coastal groups, and one of the most commonly depicted in the art. Killer Whales are widely accepted as clan ancestors, and are found in shamanic, story and crest art” (Shearar 2000: 62). – Understanding Northwest Coast Art: A guide to Crest, Beings and Symbols
Salmon:
“Salmon are honoured and celebrated by all coastal peoples: the fish serves as a powerful symbol of regeneration, self-sacrifice and perseverance” (Shearar 2000: 91). – Understanding Northwest Coast Art: A guide to Crest, Beings and Symbols
