How Do You Pick a Totem Pole?
Totem poles are posts or pillars that feature animals or different objects with a symbolic meaning carved into them. They are usually made of the wood of large trees and typically represent the different beliefs of various Native American tribes in North America. They serve a more decorative purpose today, and obtaining one of these poles on eBay creates a beautiful and antique environment around it.
What are modern totem pole sizes and materials?Although ancient poles were always made of large wood, modern poles are made of more easily accessible materials such as bamboo, wood, or even metal. The sizes of these poles can vary from small enough to fit on a desk to big enough to be placed outside and seen by everyone in the surrounding area.
What are the various meaningful symbols used on totem poles?The creative carvings on the posts represent different things or can simply be a direct connotation to a part of life among a Native American tribe. These can be:
- People - They are usually represented realistically depending on the person depicted in the carving.
- Figures on top - The figures on top are usually the main symbols of the clan or tribe.
- Land animals - Usually these are represented with their eyes carved out and painted as curves within a circle. Popular ones include wolves, bears, beavers, and insects.
- Sea animals - These are carved typically with round eyes. Examples of these include whales, fish, and octopus.
- Birds - They usually are carved with their wings at their sides and with ears and eyebrows. The typical ones are the eagle, crow, or raven used on top of many poles.
- Nature - These can include elements of nature such as the sun, moon, and rainbows.
Every animal or part of nature is a representation of qualities that are found in people. In this sense, a personal totem can be an animal or part of nature that represents qualities that are distinct in the person. For example, a beaver is a symbol of strong will, hard work, building, protection, and determination. A bear is a representation of courage, self-preservation, introspection, power, healing, and great strength.