This vintage hand-carved wood totem letter opener by master Northwest Coast carver Ray Williams (1933-88) would make a great gift, though I'd be tempted to keep it for myself. It's a great object to hold and use, as well as to display.
Williams was a member of the Nitinat Band (Eagle Clan), part of the West Coast Tribe, who came from a long line of carvers, and passed the craft on to his children who continue to produce totems and smaller pieces like this one. Williams' work has been exhibited in museums across the United States and Canada, including the Smithsonian and the White House.
The piece measures 6 1/2 inches tall by 1 3/4" wide and 3/8" deep. It is in good vintage condition.
