Salekhard region, Western Siberia
19th – early 20th century
Wood, Russian coins
Height 16 1/4" (41.3 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Finland, Helsinki
Shaman figures from the Salekhard region of Western Siberia were made as repositories of spiritual power, objects through which a practitioner could communicate with unseen forces. This example retains its original carved form with strong presence and clear age. The condition reflects genuine use rather than display.
The inset Russian coins used as eyes are a distinctive and telling detail. Their incorporation points to contact with Russian traders and settlers, a history well documented in this region from the 18th century onward. The adaptation of foreign currency into a ritual object is characteristic of how indigenous Siberian makers absorbed outside materials without surrendering the object's spiritual function.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Salekhard region, Western Siberia
19th – early 20th century
Wood, Russian coins
Height 16 1/4" (41.3 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Finland, Helsinki
Shaman figures from the Salekhard region of Western Siberia were made as repositories of spiritual power, objects through which a practitioner could communicate with unseen forces. This example retains its original carved form with strong presence and clear age. The condition reflects genuine use rather than display.
The inset Russian coins used as eyes are a distinctive and telling detail. Their incorporation points to contact with Russian traders and settlers, a history well documented in this region from the 18th century onward. The adaptation of foreign currency into a ritual object is characteristic of how indigenous Siberian makers absorbed outside materials without surrendering the object's spiritual function.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
