Francis Horne Sr. 18.4g 14K Gold Carved Raven Bangle – Coast Salish Artist, Signed FHS

Authentic Northwest Coast Hand-Engraved Gold Bracelet Symbolizing Creation, Knowledge, and Transformation in Indigenous Tradition
This 14K yellow gold bangle by respected Coast Salish artist Francis Horne Sr. features a finely hand-engraved Raven motif in classic formline style, with symmetrical profiles showcasing tapered beaks, ovoid eyes, and interconnected U-forms evoking wings and body. In Northwest Coast Indigenous cultures, the Raven represents the Trickster and Creator who stole the sun to bring light to the world, symbolizing creation, transformation, knowledge, curiosity, and the duality of mischief and wisdom. Weighing 18.4 grams, the cuff-style bracelet demonstrates Horne's renowned engraving expertise, honed since 1972 under mentor Chief Simon Charlie, with deep relief, textured cross-hatching, and fluid lines against the polished gold. Signed "FHS" on the inner band—consistent with the artist's documented hallmark incorporating "Sr."—this piece affirms provenance from the Duncan, BC-based carver celebrated for jewelry that preserves Salish motifs and crest figures. In excellent condition, it blends ancestral storytelling with elegant wearability, suited for collectors of First Nations art or those valuing symbolic, investment-worthy pieces rooted in Pacific Northwest heritage.
 
Condition: Excellent, with lustrous polish and sharp engraving details with no dents or scratches.
 
Features
Solid 14K yellow gold, 18.4 grams, providing substantial yet wearable heft
Hand-engraved Raven in traditional formline, with ovoids, U-forms, and S-curves for compositional flow
Cuff-style design with approximately 6.5" inner circumference, 0.5" width, and flexible gap
High-relief carving and cross-hatched accents for enhanced depth and contrast
Artist hallmark "FHS" ensuring authenticity and historical value
Symbolism: Raven as cultural hero embodying enlightenment, adaptability, and ancestral narratives
 
“Precision craftsmanship and evocative symbolism—a true embodiment of Coast Salish legacy.”
— E.T.
 
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is the artist?
A: Francis Horne Sr., a Coast Salish master carver (Lummi/Tsawout) from British Columbia, active since 1972, known for gold and silver jewelry, totems, and masks under Chief Simon Charlie's guidance.
 
Q: What does the Raven symbolize?
A: In Coast Salish and broader Northwest Coast traditions, Raven signifies creation, knowledge, transformation, mischief, and the bringing of light, often as a pivotal figure in origin stories.
 
Q: Is it authentic?
A: Yes, the "FHS" signature matches Horne's known hallmark, aligning with his engraved works in galleries like Blackfish Trading Post.
 
Q: How do I care for it?
A: Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid harsh chemicals to preserve the engraving and gold finish.