Lot 73
CECILIE KLEIST (B.1948-1987)
Lot 73 Details
CECILIE KLEIST (B.1948-1987), Greenland
BIRD SPIRIT
ivory
inscribed C.K.
4.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 in — 11.4 x 3.8 x 3.8 cm
Estimate $500-$700
Realised: $900
Price Includes Buyer's Premium
Important:
This lot is located in Vancouver. Local pick up by special arrangement; shipment from Vancouver only.
Additional Images
Provenance:
Collection of Dr. James Colwill, Victoria, BC
Note:
Tupilak were originally figurines that shamans used to cast spells over enemies. By the 20th century tupilak were transformed into artistic creations without spiritual significance. Such famous contemporary artists such as Cecilie Kleist produce tupilak figurines that are on display in museums and galleries around the world.
All of the ivories in this collection were purchased by Dr. James Colwill on his trip to the Arctic in 1972. The trip was taken in conjunction with a working field trip with Canadian Arctic Producers that included visits to Baker Lake, Frobisher Bay, Pangnirtung, Broughton Island, Clyde River, Pond Inlet, Grise Fiord, Resolute Bay, Spence Bay, Igloolik, Pelly Bay and Cape Dorset.
Dr. Colwill met with and visited the homes of the artists whose works he purchased on his trip resulting in an exceptional collection that is at the same time both thoughtful and personal.