Enigmatic Female Figure
This came into the gallery from a Bering Sea eskimo collection. Overall carving feels more Anglo-like and less Native due to the semi-realistic treatment of the face and hair. The eyes do have a bit of a Northwest Coast treatment but full “ovoid” typically seen are not present. This is more likely either a victorian-era doctor’s anatomy oratory tool for women to point to areas of the body where they were ailing, or a folk carved sailor’s whimsey depicting a sweetheart. The figure is carved from walrus tusk and presents with wonderful patina and wear; it just feels great in the hand!
2 3/4 x 3/4 in.
$1,800
Date: 19th Century
