Description:

**This item is heavy/oversized and will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.**

Native American, Northern United States, Alaska, Inupiaq or Yupik people, ca. early 20th century CE. A shamanic wood dance mask with rods projecting outward with additional carvings and goose feathers. The semi-human spirits known as tuunraq (tunghak) were sometimes said to live on the moon - symbolized by the round face- and acted like game wardens - the fish and whale tail projections symbolize hunting and fishing. Note the missing thumbs on the hands, this represents moderation and harvesting only what is necessary. These masks were traditionally made under the direction of shamans and had different functions- some might be intended to wear as masks during ceremonies and others may be made to hang in the home for healing or to bring fortune during hunts. Mounted in a modern display case. Size of mask: 23" L x 16" W (58.4 cm x 40.6 cm); case: 25.5" L x 23.5" W (64.8 cm x 59.7 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.

This item is heavy/oversized and will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.

Provenance: private West Jordon, Utah, USA collection, acquired at an antiques sale in Boulder, Colorado, USA; ex-Robert Knight collection, acquired while working on the Alaskan Highway Project in the 1940s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#178519

  • Condition: Not examined outside of case. Three carved fish are reattached with adhesive - projecting pieces are delicate. Som fading and discoloration to pigments, but overall excellent condition. Mounted in modern display case.

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July 28, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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