Bentwood Cedar Boxes were commonly used by the Northwest Coast tribes or the purpose of cooking and storing food, as well as for safekeeping tools and ceremonial objects such as blankets, masks, and medicinal herbs

Traditional construction consisted of grooving a single board in three places, steaming and folding it around and joining the fourth corner by sewing it with spruce root. The top and bottom were partially hollowed out and grooved to fit the sides, the bottom being fastened with sewn or pegged root. The master craftsman then painted or carved the box to the specification of the clan who commissioned it. The spirit of the animal that decorated the box is said to dwell within and protect its contents.

Sarah Robertson is a Kwakwaka’wakw artist born in Nanaimo, BC. Coming from a family of skilled woodcarvers, she carries forward the tradition. Her father, renowned carver Alfred Robertson, has been her mentor since she began carving full-time in 1992. Sarah’s artistry is also influenced by her uncle, Sampson Robertson, and her cousin, Jackson Robertson.

Her journey as an artist started in her youth, assisting her father by sanding, staining, and polishing his works. Over time, she developed her own carving style, expanding to include masks, plaques, boxes, bowls, totem poles, talking sticks, and bentwood boxes. Known for her meticulous craftsmanship, Sarah often enhances her pieces with intricate abalone inlays, adding depth and brilliance to her designs.

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Details:

• Artist: Sarah Robertson
• Material: Cedar wood
• Measurements: 7"L x 7"W x 8.75"H

Bentwood Cedar Boxes were commonly used by the Northwest Coast tribes or the purpose of cooking and storing food, as well as for safekeeping tools and ceremonial objects such as blankets, masks, and medicinal herbs

Traditional construction consisted of grooving a single board in three places, steaming and folding it around and joining the fourth corner by sewing it with spruce root. The top and bottom were partially hollowed out and grooved to fit the sides, the bottom being fastened with sewn or pegged root. The master craftsman then painted or carved the box to the specification of the clan who commissioned it. The spirit of the animal that decorated the box is said to dwell within and protect its contents.

Sarah Robertson is a Kwakwaka’wakw artist born in Nanaimo, BC. Coming from a family of skilled woodcarvers, she carries forward the tradition. Her father, renowned carver Alfred Robertson, has been her mentor since she began carving full-time in 1992. Sarah’s artistry is also influenced by her uncle, Sampson Robertson, and her cousin, Jackson Robertson.

Her journey as an artist started in her youth, assisting her father by sanding, staining, and polishing his works. Over time, she developed her own carving style, expanding to include masks, plaques, boxes, bowls, totem poles, talking sticks, and bentwood boxes. Known for her meticulous craftsmanship, Sarah often enhances her pieces with intricate abalone inlays, adding depth and brilliance to her designs.

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Details:

• Artist: Sarah Robertson
• Material: Cedar wood
• Measurements: 7"L x 7"W x 8.75"H