Brunk Auctions
Live Auction

Emporium Auction

Thu, May 19, 2022 09:00AM EDT
Lot 237

Three Whalebone Inuit Carved Figures

Estimate: $400 - $600

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$100 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $200
$3,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000

comprising: carved ivory tupilaq spirit figure, with acrylic and metal wire stand, 5 in.; primitive antler and twine spirit figure, movable arms and legs, 4 in.; carved antler figure, 4-1/2 in.

Note: ?This lot contains animal or plant material that may be restricted under federal, state and/or local law. Prospective bidders should check all applicable government wildlife restrictions prior to placing a bid. The buyer is solely responsible for obtaining any necessary licenses or permits from federal, state and/or local authorities applicable to their purchase or transport of the object. Please note that bidders in New Jersey may not bid on any lots containing elephant ivory, mammoth ivory, or rhinoceros horn.

A tupilaq is a type of avenging spirit found within Greenlandic Inuit religious practice. Originally created and used by shamans, tupilaqs were created using various materials, including bone, hair, skin, etc. Today, carved bone and ivory examples can be found and comprise an important part of Inuit art.

Condition

scattered surface scratches, areas of discoloration, residue buildup