The Bent-box is unique to the Northwest Coast First Nations. These boxes were made in many shapes and sizes and used for many purposes.

The box was used as a large burial coffin for a Chief; storage for robes was worn on state occasions, as well as a water carrier for bowls of soup and a variety of food containers. It seems that whatever the box was used for, it was always adorned with beautiful renditions of the crests of various owners.

This design of a whale is one of my favorites of all the traditional box designs I have painted. I am glad that I retained the original painting of this Blackfish Bent-Box Design to share with you.