Parrot of Sunshine and Color

Exotic parrots have been part of North American Native cultures for millennia due to the advanced and extensive trade system that existed long before Europeans arrived on the continent. The brightly colored feathers are used in regalia and healing rites. For some tribes the parrot represents and protects the south, the direction from where the talkative birds came from. This carving by Kevin Chapman definitely has an exotic feel created by the long, sweeping tail, delicate, open work, and fine incised feather detail. Serpentine with eyes of inlaid jet, about 2 1/8" tall and 1 3/4" deep.