Thitikorn Chansasitorn
tchansasitorn@zagmail.gonzaga.edu
"Orca Pendant"
Wilson, Cooper, “Orca Pendant”, Haida, argillite and abalone shell (Spirits of the West Coast Gallery)
This large Orca or Killer Whale pendant is hand-carved by Haida artist Cooper Wilson, and it is carved in argillite with three inlays of abalone shell. The Orca or Killer Whale symbolizes family, romance, longevity, harmony, travel, community and protection. They protect those who travel away from home, and to lead them back when the time comes. Orcas will often stay their whole life with the same pod and raise each calf with care.