Description:

A commanding and intimate example of mid 20th century Inuit carving, Mother and Child is hand carved in naturally patinated whale bone by a Canadian Inuk artist in 1970 and retains its original Canadian certification tag identifying the title, date, and material. Measuring an impressive 11 inches deep x 9 inches wide x 13 1/2 inches tall, the sculpture presents a protective maternal figure in a hooded parka cradling a child at the fore. The artist has skillfully integrated the porous cellular structure of whale bone into the composition to evoke fur, cloth, and movement, while selectively smoothing and polishing the two faces for maximum contrast. The mother’s visage shows confident modeling with a band across the brow and well articulated features. The child’s smaller face is nestled within a circular surround, creating a powerful visual dialogue of shelter and kinship that collectors of classic Inuit art prize. From every angle the work offers dynamic silhouettes and richly textured surfaces that catch light beautifully, a hallmark of high quality whale bone sculpture from this period. The untouched natural patina, crisp toolwork, and absence of overcleaning speak to careful stewardship. Offered with the original government certificate reading Mother and Child and dated 1970, this piece checks every box for the serious buyer seeking an authentic, large scale, display ready Inuit whale bone carving with excellent presence and clear documentation. Ideal for advanced collections, museum display, and top tier interior settings. Unknown carver - Canadian Inuk artist per certificate.

Material and dimensions: Whale bone - 11 inches x 9 inches x 13 1/2 inches tall.

Provenance and documentation: Hand Made by a Canadian Inuk Artist certification tag included - Description Mother and Child - Date 1970 - Material Whale Bone.

Condition: Excellent presentation with expected natural voids and fissures intrinsic to whale bone that the artist has used as part of the design. No overpolishing. Stable and ready to display.
72265

  • Medium: Sculptures Inuit

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November 16, 2025 11:00 AM EST
Stouffville, ON, CA

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$0 $99 $5
$100 $299 $10
$300 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $9,999 $250
$10,000 $49,999 $500
$50,000 $99,999 $1,000
$100,000 $999,999 $5,000
$1,000,000 + $10,000