Tuesday, April 3, 2018

Can you help identify this mystery polar bear from Labrador?





Diana from Southern California writes,
I am wondering about the history of a wooden letter opener that belonged to my great aunt. I have had it for many decades, and love it, but only recently found myself curious as to where my little bear came from. When I looked closely this morning, I saw a bit of a tag that reads “Labrador,” which finally led me to you. Does this craft piece ring any bells? I have fun finding out the background of family artifacts, where they came from, who the craftspeople might have been, what era they were created. This one seems to be from up in your neck of the world! If you can direct me to any pertinent resources, I would be appreciative.
If you recognize this piece or know who the artist might have been, comment below or email ich@heritagefoundation.ca

3 comments:

Jane said...

Dale:
Bill Ritchie says "It actually looks like Kate Hetash’s signage that was used to mark buildings in Nain. I bet Sue Kaplan at Bowdin College would know the origins of this. She has a large collection of community art from 60 years ago".

Anonymous said...

Would Pete barrett of Mealy Mountain Gallery know? She’s very knowledgeable in Labrador made crafts. If not, John Nevill of Black Tickle may have an idea. He’s the best carver I’ve ever met and may know who’s work this is.

PATRICK DAVIS said...

I think it is possible this is what is left of a label that might have said GRENFELL HANDMADE IN NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR. I would think that is was made when sir wilfrid grenfell was selling items items that were made during his life in the communities of labrador and the northern penninsula of newfoundland..These kind of items were made and sold to fund hospitals etc that he was building in that region. Pat