Female Figure, Punuk or Early Thule, Sivuqaq (St. Lawrence Island), ca. 500-1000 CE
ivory, with prominent genitals and facial tattooing
9.5 x 2.5 x 1.5 in — 24.9 x 6.4 x 3.8 cm
July 14, 2022
Estimate $5,000-$7,000
Realised: $31,200
Exhibiting the formalized linear style associated with Punuk expression, the figure bears facial tattooing of a manner in keeping with the visible gender identity of the depiction. Physically large by contrast to its diminutive Okvik predecessors, the present work has an accordingly substantial presence. The characteristic Punuk inclusion of truncated forearms, (appendages wholly absent in Okvik figuration) does not disrupt the aesthetically compact profile of the figure, which is characterized by a subtle taper approaching the elongated lanceolate head of the sculpture.
Related Works:
Fitzhugh, William W., Julie Hollowell, and Aron L. Crowell, Ancient Gifts from the Ancestors; Ancient Ivories of the Bering Strait, (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2009), 199, pl. 15.
Wardell, Allen, Ancient Eskimo Ivories of the Bering Strait, (New York: Hudson Hills Press Inc., 1986), 97, pl. 114.
Many countries prohibit or restrict importation or exportation of property containing ivory, whale bone, sealskin, and/or products derived from other endangered or protected species, and require special licenses or permits in order to import or export such property. It is the responsibility of the buyer to ensure that the item is properly and lawfully exported / imported. Please do not hesitate to contact one of our specialists for further details.
Related Items
POSSIBLY LATE PUNUK OR THULE CULTURE
STANDING FEMALE FIGURE
A.D. 1000-1400
5 x 1.75 x 1 in — 2.5 x 11 x 3.5 cm
May 28, 2019
Estimate $3,500-$5,000
Realised: $5,520
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