Lot 60
CHARLIE UGYUK (1931-1999)
Additional Images
Provenance:
Private Collection, Alberta
Note:
Christian missionaries arriving in the Arctic, upon learning of the Inuit deities and spirits, were quick to place themselves in opposition to traditional culture and shamanism. As with many other cultures suppressed by European contact, a degree of grafting occurred, with the local mythology being subsumed by biblical rhetoric: all Inuit spirits thus became equated with the Christian devil.
Charlie Ugyuk’s “Little Devil” brings to mind that iconic European devil, right down to the pitchfork. The subject resembles nothing more than the ‘Little Devil’ character in Warren Kremer’s “Hot Stuff” comics. Ugyuk’s demons (such as the record-breaking “Demon Holding Young” auctioned at Waddington’s in 2013) are typically more intense and frightening than this impish sculpture, who appears more suprised than menacing.
CONDITION DETAILS
Mostly in good condition. There is a minor repair to the figures hair.
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.