Inuit Art

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

Online Auction
LOT 61

Lot 61

JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)

JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
Lot 61 Details
JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999), Gjoa Haven / Uqsuqtuuq

DOUBLE SIDED DRUM DANCER WITH SNOW GOGGLES

stone, antler
signed in syllabics
13 x 11 x 11 in — 33 x 27.9 x 27.9 cm

Estimate $8,000-$12,000

Realised: $26,400
Price Includes Buyer's Premium ?

Lot Report

Additional Images
JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • JUDAS ULLULAQ (1937-1999)
  • 3D Image
Provenance:

Private Collection, Oregon

Note:

This double-sided sculpture portrays the multiplicity of existence, with the exuberance of the dance and cultural life depicted on one side, balanced by the dynamic energy of a man on the move on the verso. Another being is present too, in the form of the tiny apparition hovering on the dancer’s shoulder. This sculpture contains multitudes—the artist, the traveller, and the spirit.

“Drum Dancer with Spirit” brings to mind Benvenuto Cellini’s “Perseus with the Head of Medusa” in the Piazza della Signoria in Florence. The front of that sculpture depicts the mythical hero raising the head of the Gorgon, while on the back of Perseus’ head, Cellini carved a self-portrait. Perhaps “Drum Dancer with Spirit” can be viewed as a self-portrait of sorts, representing the roles Ullulaq felt he embodied.

Whether it is a personal or a more generalized portrait, “Drum Dancer with Spirit” asks us to consider more than one being, a grouping of figures in conversation with each other.

CONDITION DETAILS

Mostly good condition. The handle of the drum has been noticeably repaired. There is a half inch chip to the hand holding the drum.


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 61
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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.