Sculpture, Soapstone

Artifact



78.1.1247
Inuit stone carving of green/brown seal. Polished. Stone has multiple shades making it appear spotted. Two small slits for eyes on either side of head, two downward angled nostrils. Both eyes and proper left nostril are coloured black, other nostril is not. Curved vertical lines for whiskers, and upside-down curved carving for mouth with two small holes on either end. Flippers are at side, acting as balance for the carving, and are detailed with lines for digits. Not inscribed with a signature, disk number, or syllabics.

This carving is unidentified in artist and region. Based on the theme and similar style it is likely that the piece is from the Qikiqtaaluk Region of Nunavut. Likely either from the Kinngait (previously referred to as Cape Dorset) or Kimmirut (previously referred to as Lake Harbour) regions. The resemblance can be seen in the subject of a naturalistic animal, in stone type, and style of carving. 
Stone
Length: 18cm; Width: 8cm; Height: 10.5 cm;
Accession number printed on bottom of back flipper.