Description:

Native American, Northwestern United States, Alaska or Canada, Inuit, ca. 19th to mid-20th century or earlier CE. A large, polished walrus baculum bone also known as an "oosik." The walrus is an iconic Arctic animal, and they are famous for having the largest baculum - a bone found in the penis of many placental mammals which aids in maintaining stiffness during sexual reproduction. This bone is known to native peoples in the Arctic as an oosik and were often polished and used as hunting clubs by native Alaskan cultures and later bought as unusual novelty items. Size: 16.75" L x 2" W (42.5 cm x 5.1 cm)

Please note this item falls under the Safeguard Tribal Objects of Patrimony Act and is not eligible for international shipping. Native American, Alaska Native, & Native Hawaiian objects are only eligible to ship within the United States.

Provenance: ex-Idledale, Colorado, USA collection

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#183575

  • Condition: Old losses to both ends, and natural bone ossification and pitting as shown. Dark patina across surface.

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March 1, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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