Canada's insider blog

What do traditional First Nations in British Columbia have in common with Saxon princes of the Dresden court?

Not much, you’re thinking. But a fascinating cultural exchange happening right now proves you’re wrong. 

Turns out both cultures practiced giving in order to gain prestige. The ‘potlatch’ or ‘gift-giving’ festivals of Aboriginal people in BC are renowned. Families would make objects of value, such as blankets, then give them away at potlatches to mark special occasions, such as the birth of an eldest son.

The Canadian government eventually banned potlatches, believing they were wasteful. The last big potlatch on northern Vancouver Island was in 1921. Objects used in the dances and rites from that potlatch were confiscated, then later returned and displayed at the U’mista Cultural Society in Alert Bay.

Now, this stunning collection has left Canada for the first time and is being shown at the Dresden State Art Collections in Germany.

In exchange, German curators have lent precious artifacts from the courts of Saxon rulers of the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries to the Kwakwaka’wakw Big House. These include ornamental daggers and exquisite porcelain figurines.

The two collections – and the two cultures – could not be more different. Yet both are all about the power of giving.

The Power of Giving in Alert Bay continues until Aug. 28, the Power of Giving in Dresden runs until Aug. 21.