Whale and Thunderbird Bentwood Box with a flanged top carved by Bruce Alfred from the Kwakwakawakw or Kwakiutl Nation. The box is carved from yellow and red cedar. There are Box End Designs on the two sides of the box.
TheOrca or Killer Whalesymbolizes family, romance, longevity, harmony, travel, community and protection. He is said to protect those who travel away from home, and to lead them back when the time comes. Orcas will often stay their whole life with the same pod and raise each calf with care.
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TheThunderbirdSymbol 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.
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The box including the top (at its highest point) is about H = 18 inches, W = 11 inches, L = 11 inches.
Whale and Thunderbird Bentwood Box