Sculpture, Carving

Artifact



78.1.325
after 1932
Grey/Light Green Inuit stone ("soapstone") carving of a fish/salmon. Eyes are carved out and painted black. Two small indentations are carved out for the fish's nostrils, and a mouth is carved below. A curved line is on either side of the head. Two fins on the top, three fins on either side at the bottom of the fish that act as stabilization for the sculpture, and a tail at the back. Inscriptions on the base of the carving in capital lettering. 

This carving is signed Peter Kipsigak, Igloolik, E5 139. Dull grey stone, such as used in this carvng, is common to the Igloolik region. The regional style has common themes of hunting, but mythological subjects are also common. The black eyes are unique to this art piece, and not as commonly seen in Inuit sculpture art.
Stone, Black Paint (?)
Width: 21.3cm; Height: 6.2 cm; Depth: 4.7cm;
Signature, disk number, and location inscribed on bottom of carving:
"Peter Kipsegoh E5 139 Igloolik"