Lidded Box 1870 - 1900

This birchbark Lidded Box was created by Tomah Joseph, a Passamaquoddy artist, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century. Notice the etched image of a water bird on the lid, surrounded by stylized floral and geometric motifs. The bird holds profound significance across cultures, often symbolizing spirituality, freedom, and a connection between the earthly and celestial realms. Think of the Egyptian representation of the soul as a bird, or the dove symbolizing peace in Christian iconography. The Passamaquoddy tradition, like many indigenous cultures, reveres animals as integral parts of their spiritual and material world. The water bird might represent adaptability and resourcefulness, traits crucial for survival. This reverence echoes across time, recalling Paleolithic cave paintings where animals were depicted with a similar blend of awe and necessity. Such images, etched into rock or birch bark, aren't merely representations, but potent symbols that tap into our collective memory. Consider how these enduring symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings, engaging us on a deep, subconscious level.