This Eclipse Panel is hand-carved by Nuu-Chah-Nulth artist Tim Paul. It has been carved in red cedar, painted in white, yellow, and black acrylic, and adorned with seven inlays of abalone. The panel is signed and dated by the artist on the back.

Many Northwest Coast Indigenous peoples believe that an eclipse occurs when a monster in the sky, often referred to as a Codfish or Lingcod, attempts to swallow the moon. To counteract this, people will dance around a smoky, smoldering fire, hoping to force the monster to sneeze and cough up the moon.

The Moon Symbol is the protector and guardian of the earth. Its spirit watches over us and can change our moods.

Find more information about and examples of Northwest Coast First Nations symbol.

Listen as Tim shares the story behind this panel:

This panel measures approximately 12 1/2 inches or 32 centimeters high, 11 3/4 inches or 30 centimeters wide, and up to 2 inches inches or 5 centimeters thick.

The last image shows Tim holding the panel.