Totem poles are monuments or sculptures generally carved from large tree pieces. They represent ancestry, history, and details of people and events. Totem poles are generally sculpted out of red cedarwood and are often decorated with symbolic figures of animals, humans, and supernatural creatures. The purpose of a totem pole goes beyond aesthetics. The meanings of these poles are different in different cultures.

Out of the different totem poles in UK, a few represent stories about important events. The figures engraved on these poles represent an important part of a story, and thus, these totems are also used to record the history of the local tribes.

What is the purpose of totem poles?

  • Depict family lineage:

The pictures engraved on the totem poles visually represent family crests and clan histories. You will find poles carved by families where the pictures will be carved according to the important events the family members want to share. The stories can also contain pictures of supernatural events that the family might have encountered.

  • Local tribal history:

At times, the totem poles are carved and constructed to depict the stories and histories of the local tribes in that area.

  • Ceremonial sculpture:

The poles are also used to mark important ceremonies in your life. If you are looking forward to honouring a person’s memory, you can hire a totem pole maker for the same and curve out the best memorial out of the same.

  • Displaying rights:

The pole is a perfect example of displaying a family’s right to a particular nation or portion of land. It can also depict the story of territories and local songs and dances that can help people become aware of them.

Generally, the colours used for painting totem poles in the UK are black; however, artists have also resorted to using natural pigments to carve them. Some of the common figures found on a totem pole include a raven, eagle, whale, beaver, thunderbird, frog, and wolf. All these figures have symbolic meanings and are carved based on the stories or information that needs to be shared.

If you’re looking for a totem pole in UK, get in touch with Peter Leadbeater Designs for the same. My business is a prominent name for creating well-carved totem poles for various properties in UK. For more information, contact me.