This is one of a pair of house posts which stood in the Huu-ay-aht village of Numukamis at the

NUU-CHAH-NULTH
Huu-ay-aht
Keeshan, Vancouver Island
Potlatch Figure
2103

This figure stood, facing the beach, in front of a house at the Huu-ay-aht village of Keeshan. With the accompanying female figure, it was erected in preparation for two potlatches given for the Neah Bay people before 1900. The figures may have belonged to the village chief, Louis Nukumis.

This figure represents Nutchkoa, a possessor of supernatural powers, watching for people to come. He stands ready to draw their canoes up and invite them into his house for a potlatch.

Dr. Charles F. Newcombe purchased both figures for the Museum in 1911. The facial decorations, depicting small marine animals, were added later by Chakes George of Port Alberni.