Alutiiq (Sugpiag), Kodiak Island, Alaska
Early 19th century
Walrus ivory
Height 3 1/2" (8.9 cm)
Provenance: Santa Fe Trade
Amulets of this type occupied a central place in Alutiiq spiritual practice, used by shamans to mediate between the human and spirit worlds and to ensure success in hunting, healing, and ceremonial life. The Alutiiq people of Kodiak Island maintained a rich tradition of carved ivory objects imbued with spiritual agency, distinct in form and purpose from the decorative and functional ivory work produced elsewhere in the Arctic. Human figure amulets of the early 19th century represent some of the earliest documented Alutiiq carved objects to enter outside collections.
This figure is carved in the round with inlaid eyes, a defined face, and articulated body rendered with economy and directness characteristic of Alutiiq carving of the period. The ivory has developed a deep, warm patina through handling and age, the surface smooth and consistent with prolonged ritual use. Provenance traces to Santa Fe Trade, connecting the piece to the early Southwest dealer network through which significant Arctic material entered private collections.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Alutiiq (Sugpiag), Kodiak Island, Alaska
Early 19th century
Walrus ivory
Height 3 1/2" (8.9 cm)
Provenance: Santa Fe Trade
Amulets of this type occupied a central place in Alutiiq spiritual practice, used by shamans to mediate between the human and spirit worlds and to ensure success in hunting, healing, and ceremonial life. The Alutiiq people of Kodiak Island maintained a rich tradition of carved ivory objects imbued with spiritual agency, distinct in form and purpose from the decorative and functional ivory work produced elsewhere in the Arctic. Human figure amulets of the early 19th century represent some of the earliest documented Alutiiq carved objects to enter outside collections.
This figure is carved in the round with inlaid eyes, a defined face, and articulated body rendered with economy and directness characteristic of Alutiiq carving of the period. The ivory has developed a deep, warm patina through handling and age, the surface smooth and consistent with prolonged ritual use. Provenance traces to Santa Fe Trade, connecting the piece to the early Southwest dealer network through which significant Arctic material entered private collections.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
