Argillite Bear Carving by Amy Edgars (Haida)

Meaning of Bear:The Haida name for Bear is Taan. Bears represent respect, intelligence, family, and a connection to the forest. Haida Gwaii is home to some of the largest black bears in North America. In the Haida oral history, the story of Bear Mother recounts a woman being married into the bear clan. From then on, there was peace and harmony between bears and humans on Haida Gwaii. 

Specification's: 

  • Material: Argillite, Paua Shell
  • Dimensions: 2 5/8 x 1 3/4x 1 1/4 inch

Made by Haida artist Amy Edgars:

Amy is one of few Haida women argillite carvers and has been carving for over 15 years. She has a passion for carving and has made the trip up Slatechuck Mountain several times to gather her own argillite. Learn more about Amy Edgar's journey as an artist.

About Argillite: 

Argillite is a black stone that is geologically classified as slate. The argillite from Haida Gwaii is found on one mountaintop and is protected by the Haida Nation as a stone exclusively carved by the Haida people.

This stone’s geological formation makes it unique compared to argillite found elsewhere. Exposure to high heats allowed this argillite to cool and form in a way that was strong enough to be carved, yet soft enough to take on fine carving details and sculpting.

Made by hand, please expect some variation in each piece. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any inquiries