The lot features an original Arthur Moody (Northwest Coast, Haida, 1885-1967) Skidegate, British Columbia, Canada argillite totem raven pendant signed and dated 1953. Arthur Moody (Northwest Coast, Haida, 1885-1967) was a master carver from Skidegate, British Columbia (Queen Charlotte Islands), Canada who was well-versed in the argillite tradition. Arthur learned his craft from Robert Miller (1860-1930). who came from Tasu, Haida Gwaii. One of Arthurs larges pieces, a 48-inch argillite totem pole, with its proceeds allowing him to build his home in Skidegate. This piece exhibits a solid carved piece of solid argillite showing a raven totem figure in traditional Haida / Northwest Coast patterns. The back is signed / incscribed by hand "carved Dec. 53 Arthur Moody Skidegate Mission BC." Arthur Moody argillite carvings are highly collectible with several selling at auction including the argillite totem sold by Seahawk Auctions in 2014 for $5,747.50 (CAD w/ bp) and another totem in 2019 sold by Artemis Gallery for $1,867.50 (USD w/ bp). No apparent damages. Measures overall 1 5/8" diameter. As an additional note Arthur Moody did carve the largest argillite totem in the world which was approx. 59-inches tall, the record has since been surpassed by Arthur's son Rufus Moody who is also an accomplished master. The totem is carved from argillite, a dark, slate-like stone that is found only on the islands of Haida Gwaii, off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. Argillite has been used by Haida artists for centuries, and is prized for its rich color and fine grain, which allows for intricate carving. The use of argillite in totem carvings is a hallmark of Haida art, and is one of the reasons why Haida carvings are so highly valued by collectors and art enthusiasts. The history of argillite totem carvings dates back centuries, to a time when the Haida people used the stone to carve everyday objects such as bowls, boxes, and pipes. Over time, Haida carvers began to use argillite to create more elaborate and intricate works of art, including totem poles and figurines. In the 19th century, as Europeans began to arrive in Haida Gwaii, the demand for Haida carvings grew. Argillite totem carvings became especially popular among collectors, and Haida artists began to produce more and more intricate and elaborate works to meet this demand. Today, argillite totem carvings are highly prized by collectors and art enthusiasts around the world. They are a testament to the skill and artistry of the Haida people, and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Northwest Coast.