The Tlingit (Lingít) are an Indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest Coast (Southeast Alaska, British Columbia, Yukon) with a complex, matrilineal society rooted in a rich maritime, hunter-gatherer tradition. Known for their intricate art—including totem poles and formline design—they are organized into two main moieties (Raven and Eagle/Wolf). Their culture emphasizes kinship, oratory, and deep spiritual respect for the ocean, historically relying on salmon, berries, and game.

Shaman Ivory Amulet
marine ivory
19th century
Tlingit culture
British Columbia, Canada

#handmade #carved #marineivory #tusk #tlingitculture #britishcolumbia #canada #shamanamulet #magic #religion #culture #belief #pacificnorthwest #firstnation #indigenous #nativeamerican

Tlingit culture, found in Southeast Alaska and British Columbia, is rich in traditions centered on family, art, spirituality, and a deep connection to the sea. Key aspects include a matrilinea! kinship system, intricate wood carvings, and a strong emphasis on potlatches and respect for the natural world, particularly salmon. Descent and inheritance are traced through the mother's line, and clan membership is passed down through the mother's family. Tlingit society is organized into moieties (Raven-Crow and Eagle-Wolf) and further divided into autonomous clans, each with its own crests. The Tlingit are renowned for their intricate wood carvings, particularly totem poles, canoes, and ceremonial objects, often incorporating clan crests and animal motifs. A ceremonial feast where hosts give away possessions to demonstrate wealth and status, strengthening social bonds and reaffirming clan relationships.

Shaman's poncho
hide and pigment
Tlingit culture
Alaska
c. 1850

#tlingit #tlingitart #ritual #religion #tlingitculture #alaska #alaskanart #indigenousart #shamanism #firstnation #ceremonialgarment #nativeamericanhistory #culturalheritage #tribalart #anthropology #historicaltextiles

A Years-Long Collaboration Sees a Traditional Tlingit Tribal House Return to Glacier Bay Xunaa Shuká Hít is a sacred house for the Indigenous community and an educational site for visitors.

What a wonderful project. I've long admired the art and culture of the Northwest Coast.

#TlingitCulture #GlacierBay #ClanHouse #IndigenousHeritage #CulturalRevival #AlaskaNative #PreservingTraditions

A Years-Long Collaboration Sees a Traditional Tlingit Tribal House Return to Glacier Bay Xunaa Shuká Hít is a sacred house for the Indigenous community and an educational site for visitors.

What a wonderful project. I've long admired the art and culture of the Northwest Coast.

#TlingitCulture #GlacierBay #ClanHouse #IndigenousHeritage #CulturalRevival #AlaskaNative #PreservingTraditions