Description:

Native American, Northwestern United States, Alaska, Inuit or Inupiat people, ca. 20th century CE. This is an interesting carving of a ram's head using a single large whale bone to hand sculpt the piece. The sheep's head is stylized- a rounded snout, nostrils, incised eyes, pupils inlaid with a black stone, and dramatic coiled horns close to the sides. This piece is initialed "TR" by an unknown artist on the chin. Domesticated sheep were introduced to the Americas by Europeans, but wild Dall sheep have been vital to indigenous people of Alaska for hundreds of years. The Inupiat relied primarily on caribou for hides and meat, but if the herds were scarce, they would climb the steep alpine terrain to hunt sheep. The dwindling caribou population of the early 20th century led to a great dependence on Dall sheep harvests for meat, and subsistence and game hunting of these animals is still popular today. Size: 7" L x 5" W x 6.5" H (17.8 cm x 12.7 cm x 16.5 cm)

Provenance: private Covington, Louisiana, USA collection

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#169858

  • Condition: Stable pressure fissures on horns and natural bone ossification throughout. Minor surface nicks and abrasion to interior between horns.

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Artemis Fine Arts

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