Description:

Native American, Alaska, Inuit people, probably Nuvugmiut from near Point Barrow (Alaska's northern coast), ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A fantastically useful tool made from a seal claw, with a wooden handle, wrapped in thick sinews and leather straps to hold the claws in place. The Nuvugmiut observed that, in warm weather, seals would bask on the surface of the ice, their claws scratching on the surface, attracting other seals. As a result, in spring, a hunter would carry a device like this and use it to lure seals to his or her harpoon. Size: 12.45" L x 3" W (31.6 cm x 7.6 cm); 5.45" H (13.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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#133584

  • Condition: Rich patina on sinew and bone from age and handling. Intact.

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May 10, 2018 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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