Totem Stock Photography

Totem poles are monumental sculptures carved on poles, posts, or pillars with symbols or figures made from large trees, by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest coast of North America. Totem poles are not religious objects, but they do communicate important aspects of native culture. Carvings of animals and other characters typically represent characters or events in a story. The carvings may symbolize or commemorate cultural beliefs that recount familiar legends, clan lineages, or notable events. The poles may also serve as functional architectural features, welcome signs for village visitors or mortuary vessels for the remains of deceased ancestors.