Serving Board - Whales by Ernest Swanson

Whales Serving Board by Ernest Swanson | Native Northwest – Haida Indigenous Art

Bring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest's coastal waters to your table.

The Whales Serving Board by Ernest Swanson is a beautiful combination of Indigenous artistry, natural materials, and thoughtful design. Featuring original artwork by Ernest Swanson, a Haida Indigenous artist, this elegant serving board celebrates the magnificent whales that inspire wonder along the Pacific Northwest coast.

Crafted from durable acacia hardwood, the board features a removable glass insert measuring 12" x 7.25". Swanson's striking whale artwork is printed on the reverse of the glass using food-safe ink, allowing the design to remain beautifully visible while providing a practical surface for serving cheeses, charcuterie, appetizers, and other favorite treats.

Whether you're hosting friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this distinctive serving board adds a meaningful artistic touch to your table.

The Symbolism of the Whale

Whales hold important cultural significance in many Indigenous communities of the Northwest Coast. Depending on the Nation, family, and artistic tradition, whale imagery may be connected to ancestry, identity, relationships with the ocean, and the importance of community.

Known for their intelligence, close family bonds, and remarkable journeys through the sea, whales also inspire broader associations with connection, strength, and the mysteries of the natural world.

Ernest Swanson's artwork offers an opportunity to appreciate contemporary Haida design while celebrating the marine environment that connects coastal communities.

Why We Chose It for Millstream

At Millstream, we're continually inspired by the incredible marine life of the Salish Sea. From Bainbridge Island to Port Townsend, our coastal waters are home to some of the Pacific Northwest's most extraordinary wildlife.

Orcas and humpback whales are especially beloved throughout our region, drawing visitors from around the world who hope to catch a glimpse of these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

We selected the Whales Serving Board because it brings together so many things we love: Indigenous artistry, beautiful natural materials, practical craftsmanship, and a celebration of the ocean.

It's a wonderful piece for anyone who enjoys entertaining, appreciates Northwest Coast art, or wants to bring a little of the Pacific Northwest into their home.

Whether given as a wedding gift, housewarming present, or special souvenir from Washington State, this serving board is both a functional kitchen accessory and a memorable celebration of coastal living.

Product Highlights

Artist: Ernest Swanson – Haida
Brand: Native Northwest
Design: Whales
Material: Durable acacia hardwood with removable glass insert
Glass insert dimensions: 12" x 7.25"
Artwork: Original Indigenous design printed on the reverse of the glass using food-safe ink
Use: Serving cheeses, charcuterie, appetizers, and snacks
Style: Pacific Northwest coastal home décor and entertaining
Gift Ideas: Weddings, housewarmings, hostess gifts, holidays, and whale enthusiasts
Native Northwest SKU: AWGB14