Haida Black Argilite Seal By Miles Edgers

ca. 2003

2.75" H x 4" L x 1.5" W

Hand Carved from Argilite Stone of a Seal with a Mother of Pearl Eye

Excellent Condition

Haida Black Argillite Seal by Myles Edgars (also signed as Miles Edgars) is a traditional sculpture carved from argillite, a dense, lustrous black shale unique to Haida Gwaii (formerly the Queen Charlotte Islands) in British Columbia, Canada. This material, known as kwawhlahl in the Haida language, is quarried exclusively by Haida artists from Slatechuck Mountain and has been used for carvings since the early 19th century, often depicting animals, myths, and crests.

Myles Edgars (1958–deceased) was a renowned Haida artist born in Queen Charlotte City on Haida Gwaii. He began carving argillite at age 13, mentored by his brother-in-law Steven Collison and cousin Donald Edgars. Edgars developed a distinctive style incorporating traditional Haida formline design, symbols, and stories. He mentored the next generation, including his daughter Amy Edgars, who continues the tradition.