Rattle depicting Halibut, 1990
by the Hunt Family Kwakwaka’wakw Nation
red cedar, wood beads, pigment, metal stand
12” long x 4” wide x 1.5” deep
he Hunt Family refers to a prominent Indigenous Canadian family, with deep roots in the Kwakwaka'wakw First Nation communities of Fort Rupert, British Columbia. Members of the Hunt family are renowned for their artistry, particularly in carving totem poles and masks, but the family's influence extends to ethnography through the work of George Hunt (1854-1933) and to the continuation of cultural practices.
The Family's Legacy and Notable Members
George Hunt (Ethnologist): Born in 1854, George Hunt was a pivotal figure in the study of the Kwakwaka'wakw people, working alongside ethnologist Franz Boas. He contributed immensely to the documentation of Kwakwaka'wakw culture and produced many of the items used in the famous 1920 film The Kwakwaka'wakw.
Henry Hunt: A descendant of George Hunt, Henry Hunt was a master carver whose totem poles are displayed worldwide.
Tony Hunt: Henry's son, Tony Hunt, is also a celebrated artist, continuing the family's carving tradition and working with his family to create pieces in the traditional Kwakwaka'wakw style.
Stan Hunt: A son of Henry Hunt and father of Jason Hunt, Stan is an accomplished artist who also works in the Kwakwaka'wakw style.
Jason Hunt: A son of Stan Hunt, is a contemporary artist who creates large totems and other pieces, drawing inspiration from his family's artistic heritage.
Calvin Hunt: A highly respected artist and hereditary chief, Calvin Hunt is known for his ceremonial dance costumes and his mentorship of younger artists, continuing the legacy of the Hunt family and the cultural practices of his people.
The Hunt family is a significant part of the Kwakwaka'wakw people's history and cultural preservation. Through their artistic output and contributions to the documentation and performance of ceremonies, they have shared the rich traditions and artistry of their people with the world.
