Description:

Native American / First Nations, Northwest Coast United States, Alaska or Canada, Inupiaq / Inuit people, ca. mid to late 20th century CE. A hand carved soapstone statue of two figures wrestling, one throwing himself headfirst into the stomach of the upright figure. The open mouth is open as if gasping or yellowing, with a row of antler or bone shards inserted as teeth. The base is signed in Inuktitut syllabics for an unknown artist. Inuit wrestling is an ancient form of contest that tested strength and demonstrated endurance, and survival skills. It was often practiced during community gatherings and served both as entertainment and a means of preparing young men for the harsh conditions of the Arctic. Size: 10.5" L x 5.5" W x 9.5" H (26.7 cm x 14 cm x 24.1 cm)

Please note this item may fall 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: private Park City, Utah, USA collection, acquired by descent; ex-private Park City, Utah, USA collection

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#188619

  • Condition: Surface abrasions and natural gouges and brown veining in the stone. A few minor nicks and chips, but otherwise intact with no repairs. Signed in Inuktitut script, but has not been translated or identified.

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September 19, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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