Transforming Raven (or similar Northwest Coast Totemic Circle)
Limited edition serigraph (silkscreen) print on paper, matted and framed. • Roy Henry Vickers (indicated by the signature style in the lower right bottom curve of the circular border). Tsimshian, Haida, and Heiltsuk heritage.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Northwest Coast Indigenous Art; Formline style.
Medium & Technique
Serigraphy in a monochromatic deep burgundy/vandyke red color. The technique utilizes the traditional formline design principles of the Northwest Coast indigenous peoples, characterized by ovoids, U-forms, and S-forms.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (approximately 1970-1995), a period of significant revival for Northwest Coast printmaking.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20 x 20 inches (framed). The artwork is a circular tondo-style composition within a square frame.
Subject Description
The composition is a circular ‘spindle whorl’ layout featuring stylized animal motifs, likely representing Raven and Whale or Eagle in a state of transformation. The central void creates a focus point, while the interlocking forms represent the interconnectedness of species in First Nations mythology.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The print appears well-preserved behind glass; however, there is notable glare and potential slight fading from UV exposure depending on the display environment.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $700 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a gallery specializing in First Nations art in British Columbia or the Pacific Northwest. Signatures and numbering (bottom left/right) indicate a formal editioned release.
Art Historical Significance
Roy Henry Vickers is a premier figure in Canadian art, known for bridging traditional First Nations iconography with modern printmaking. His work was instrumental in the commercial and critical success of Northwest Coast art in the late 20th century.
Notable Features
Includes a visible pencil signature and edition number along the lower circular border. The use of a single dark earth tone is characteristic of early-to-mid career Vickers prints.
Condition Issues
Potential acid burn from the matting if not archival; slight paper undulation; visible glare suggests standard glass rather than museum-grade UV-protective glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Remount using acid-free archival matting and backing. Replace existing glass with UV-filtering museum glass to prevent future pigment degradation.