Engraved Inuit Spoons and Awl
Four Inuit bone spoons, together with a small awl blade, with engravings on each handle. Various fantastic totems, and a depiction of an Inuit whaling expedition on the reverse of the awl. The bone for these utensils likely came from Europe as trade items. These were then worked by the Inuit. While likely intended for sale, they carry the full spirit of Inuit tradition and legend, and occupy an important place in the long history of Inuit art. Were these designs on canvas, they would perhaps have been sooner recognized for the fine art they represent.
Circa early 1900's.
Lengths: 4.75 in - 3.75 in // 12 cm - 9.5 cm
Combined Weight: 12 g
Four Inuit bone spoons, together with a small awl blade, with engravings on each handle. Various fantastic totems, and a depiction of an Inuit whaling expedition on the reverse of the awl. The bone for these utensils likely came from Europe as trade items. These were then worked by the Inuit. While likely intended for sale, they carry the full spirit of Inuit tradition and legend, and occupy an important place in the long history of Inuit art. Were these designs on canvas, they would perhaps have been sooner recognized for the fine art they represent.
Circa early 1900's.
Lengths: 4.75 in - 3.75 in // 12 cm - 9.5 cm
Combined Weight: 12 g
Four Inuit bone spoons, together with a small awl blade, with engravings on each handle. Various fantastic totems, and a depiction of an Inuit whaling expedition on the reverse of the awl. The bone for these utensils likely came from Europe as trade items. These were then worked by the Inuit. While likely intended for sale, they carry the full spirit of Inuit tradition and legend, and occupy an important place in the long history of Inuit art. Were these designs on canvas, they would perhaps have been sooner recognized for the fine art they represent.
Circa early 1900's.
Lengths: 4.75 in - 3.75 in // 12 cm - 9.5 cm
Combined Weight: 12 g