George F. MacDonald

Breathtaking photographs make this volume an unforgettable visual experience. Individual works of superlative Northwest Coast Indian art appear on large pages, their colors vivid against black backgrounds. Most startling and awe inspiring are the many masks, made of wood and other materials, that represent animal spirits and shamans; for instance, the gorgeous thunderbird transformation mask with its dark, curved beak and red feathers, which is shown closed and then open to reveal the metamorphosed turquoise human face within. Other photos display detailed carvings on boxes, utensils, and even houses. The detailed text is well wrought, both academically solid and accessible. But it is the photographs that make one gasp with admiration.