Inuit Seal Stone Carving
This Inuit sculpture is not signed by the artist nor does it have a Canadian numbered tag so I think it is probably circa 1950.
During the nineteenth century the Inuit carvers never imagined that their special "whittles" carved during the cold and forever dark days of the winter would become of such great value. With the crudest and simplest of materials, they were able to take a block of stone and create incredibly strong and distinctive shapes that demonstrated their attitude and spiritual beliefs toward the dignity of the human figure and animals.
For this exceptional carving the artist has taken a unusually rare and beautiful light olive brown green serpentine stone possessing wonderful inclusions , and captured the essence of this seal. An unusual upright sitting position with head out stretched.
Of excellent proportions, he will bring life to any table top in your home. A rare and important work you will enjoy for many generations to come.
5" x 2" at the widest point 1 1/2" ht