Description:

Native American, coastal southern California, Chumash people, Canalino Period, ca. 250 to 1750 CE. A charming black steatite whale effigy with eight inlaid shell rings on the surface - two at the eyes and three along each lower edge. Otherwise the figure is simply carved, with a large curved tail and a tall dorsal fin. A small mouth is carved in a thin line along the lower edge. The steatite likely came from Santa Catalina Island, a known source of raw steatite in the area. Figures like this one have been found in a variety of contexts in this region, but their purpose remains a mystery for archaeologists, even though hundreds are known. Many are orcas, like this one, while others are birds, turtles, and other terrestrial animals. Are these toys, shamanic tools, ritual items, grave markers? Ethnographic accounts from the contact period do not mention these effigies, so we may never know. Size: 2.45" W x 1.6" H (6.2 cm x 4.1 cm)

Provenance: private Minnesota, USA collection

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#150453

  • Condition: The surface is smoothed and weathered from age and handling. There are a few tiny chips and nicks, but overall it is in lovely condition.

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November 14, 2019 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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