Chilkat Blanket Purchased from Toronto Auction by Taku River Tlingit First Nation, Roughly 140 Years After it was Taken

Members of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation are celebrating the return of a traditional robe, despite the hefty price tag.

Last month, the Chilkat blanket, featuring the unique twin wolf symbol of the Taku people, was discovered for sale at a Toronto auction house.

Members of the Band came together to collect the $46,500 to purchase the blanket, thanks in part to a GoFundMe Campaign.

While it is unclear precisely when the blanket was made, it was likely stolen from the Nation during the potlatch ban in the 1880s.

In addition to the signature wolves, it features imagery of two ravens and a child, in the style of renowned weaver Mary Hunt.

Currently undergoing restoration work in Vancouver, it is anticipated to make its return home early next year.