This beautiful book traces the development of bird carving, a distinctly American art form, from the mid-1800s to the present. Displayed in stunning color photos are some of the very best examples of bird carving produced in both the United States and Canada. This volume focuses on the two generations of bird artists, working from the last quarter of the twentieth century to today. They include James Foote, John Scheeler, Ernest Muehlmatt, Jimmie Vizier, Larry Hayden, the Brunets, Larry Barth, Gary Yoder, and Todd Wohlt, among others. It also details the influence of the two previous generations of decoy makers and artists on the current carvers. The text provides a fascinating history of bird carving and details of the lives and work of each carver included. A bibliography is also provided. The bird carvings presented provide readers and students of the art form with some of the finest examples of contemporary bird carvings.

Native art on the Northwest Coast is very much alive and increasing in both artistry and volume. Over 400 color photographs of old and recent artwork have been selected with the collector in mind. Totems, drums, rattles boxes and canoes join the many masks displayed here. Many pieces are shown from several sides and the back to give a complete picture of the work. Master carvers as well as younger artists are featured. The text guides readers to better understand the complex society, its artwork, and current values.