{"product_id":"pugwis-mask","title":"Pugwis Mask","description":"\u003cp\u003eStan Hunt\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKwakwaka'wakw\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePugwis serves as the intermediary between the human realm and the supernatural domain of the sea, embodying the liminal space where two worlds converge. This spirit manifests with distinctly aquatic features—a fish-like visage, prominent teeth, and functional gills—marking its dual nature. Within the 'Namxiyalegiyu Sea Monster dances performed during Tła'sala ceremonies, Pugwis acts as an emissary of Kumugwe, the Chief of the Sea, executing the will of the ocean's supreme authority and its numerous supernatural attendants. This mask captures the essence of that transformative power, connecting wearer and viewer to the deep traditions of Kwakwaka'wakw ceremonial practice.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\nStan C Hunt is the youngest son of master carver Henry Hunt and grandson of Mungo Martin, who preserved Kwakwaka'wakw art from extinction. Working from his studio in Fort Rupert, BC, Stan learned carving from his father at age sixteen, mastering only traditional hand tools—adze, curved knife, and straight knife—with no power tools or sandpaper. His work draws from ancestral stories and ceremonial knowledge, informed by his own experience dancing as a Hamatsa at age ten. He mentors emerging artists, maintaining rigorous standards of quality and cultural authenticity while supporting individual artistic expression.\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Douglas Reynolds Gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44201930522758,"sku":null,"price":4500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0774\/6735\/files\/DSC_1961copy_400x400_606f9c1f-5ee7-47ff-9bc4-5741a79d0a1a.webp?v=1785443286","url":"https:\/\/shopsealaskaheritage.com\/products\/pugwis-mask","provider":"Sealaska Heritage Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}