Inuit Art

May 0813, 2021
Auction begins to close at 8:00 pm ET

Online Auction
LOT 59

Lot 59

KAROO ASHEVAK (1940-1974)

KAROO ASHEVAK (1940-1974)
Lot 59 Details
KAROO ASHEVAK (1940-1974), Spence Bay / Taloyoak

SHAMAN WITH MITTENS

whalebone
6.25 x 12 x 7 in — 15.9 x 30.5 x 17.8 cm

Estimate $10,000-$15,000

Realised: $31,200
Price Includes Buyer's Premium ?

Lot Report

Additional Images
KAROO ASHEVAK (1940-1974)
  • KAROO ASHEVAK (1940-1974)
  • KAROO ASHEVAK (1940-1974)
  • KAROO ASHEVAK (1940-1974)
  • 3D Image
Provenance:

Purchased in Spence Bay in 1970
The Estate of  M.A  Mahtab Phd, NS

Note:

AGO curator Wanda Nanibush explains that Karoo Ashevak’s art was shaped by scary stories of otherworldly monsters told to him at bedtime: “and then as he got older and he started carving, it's like these stories kind of shifted in his mind and they became much more loving and funny to him."

Noted both for his humour as much as for the originality and skill of his art, “Spirit” is highly emblematic of Ashevak’s work. The subject’s face appears animated—either in surprise, fear or wonder—yet this spectre from another world is wearing mittens. The figure before us is thus rendered human and of this earth, almost charming, in need of protecting from the cold.

Ashevak’s career was cut short by his death in 1974, one year after a solo show in New York City earned him major recognition in the United States and Canada. He had been sculpting for only four years, making this work a special find for collectors.

Quote Source: CBC Arts

CONDITION DETAILS

Good condition, no visible issues to report.


As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and mandated government restrictions, Waddington’s regrets that we are unable to make lots from this auction available for pre-auction, in-person inspection. This condition report has been prepared by Waddington’s as a courtesy and has been provided for guidance only. The Lot is offered in the condition it is in at the time of sale. Any reference to condition in the report for the Lot does not amount to a full description of condition. The images of the Lot form part of the condition report for the Lot provided by Waddington’s. Please note, certain images of the Lot provided online may not accurately reflect the actual condition of the Lot and may represent colours and shades which are different to the Lot’s actual colour and shades. Waddington’s specialists are not professional conservators or restorers and the report set forth is a statement of opinion genuinely held by Waddington’s. Prospective buyers should bear in mind that this report will not disclose any imperfections which may only be revealed during the course of subsequent restoration. Buyers are reminded that Waddington’s warranties with respect to any property are limited as set forth in the Conditions of Sale and do not extend to condition.

LOT 59
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About Condition Ratings

  • 5 Stars: Excellent - No discernable damage, flaws or imperfections
  • 4 Stars: Very Good - Minor flaws or imperfections visible only under close inspection using specialised instruments or black light
  • 3 Stars: Good - Minor flaws visible upon inspection under standard lighting
  • 2 Stars: Fair - Exhibits flaws or damage that may draw the eye under standard lighting
  • 1 Star: Poor - Flaws or damage immediately apparent under standard lighting (examples: missing components, rips, broken glass, damaged surfaces, etc.)

Note: Condition ratings and condition details are the subjective opinions of our specialists and should be used as a guide only. Waddington’s uses due care when preparing condition details, however, our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. Condition details and reports are not warranties and each lot is sold “as is” in accordance with the buyer’s terms and conditions of sale. In all cases the prospective purchaser is responsible for inspecting the property themselves prior to placing a bid.