The Kwakiutl potlatch was celebrated in an exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History. The exhibit was created to present the potlatch as not only an historic event but also as a vital and continuing tradition. The exhibit featured Kwakiutl masks, figures, and accoutrements used in the late 1800's and early 1900's presented alongside contemporary potlatch pieces to elaborate this enduring tradition. This book examines more than one hundred objects from the American Museum and other collections, which are illustrated in full color. Extended captions incorporate information provided by many members of the Kwakiutl community, describing the objects’ history and acquisition.

Co-published by American Museum of Natural History.