Totem Pole

This cartoonish cat tower tribute to Native American totem sculptures is composed of wood, compressed cardboard, paper mache, Plaster of Paris, gesso, and many layers of paint.  Cabinet knobs and bun feet serve as the eyes for the mouse and Great horned owl, respectively.  Electrical wire forms the whiskers for the orange tabby and his gray-furred friend.  Hand-carved solid wood provides a sturdy I-beam perch for the kitties that doubles as the owl’s wingspan.  Sisal-wrapped wooden fish that hang in the cat’s clutched paws provide a convenient scratch spot for the real-life cats.  And a carpeted and painted wood stud provide the armature at the heart of the piece.

The following excerpt is taken from Legends of America’s website:

A totem is a spirit being, sacred object, or symbol of a tribe, clan, family or individual. Native American tradition provides that each individual is connected with nine different animals that will accompany each person through life, acting as guides. Different animal guides come in and out of our lives depending on the direction that we are headed and the tasks that need to be completed along our journey.

Native beliefs further explain that a totem animal is one that is with you for life, both in the physical and spiritual world. Though people may identify with different animal guides throughout their lifetimes, it is this one totem animal that acts as the main guardian spirit.

This model measures 60″ wide at its widest point, 28″ deep x 71″ tall.

Like all our items, we can design and build this piece to your liking in terms of size, style, finish, etc.