Description:

A powerfully modeled and beautifully balanced example of late 20th century Inuit sculpture, this signed 1994 Seal Spirit by Leo Uttaq of Taloyoak presents the quintessential shamanic transformation theme with confident, economical carving and a refined tactile finish. Executed in dark green-black serpentine stone with naturally occurring light mineral inclusions, the work is carved in the round to read from multiple viewpoints, its low horizontal profile and tapering flippers creating a dynamic sense of glide. Uttaq concentrates the detailing at the head and shoulders where softly ridged muzzle lines, deeply drilled eyes, and carefully dressed planes suggest both animal presence and spiritual animation. The stone is skillfully polished to a satiny sheen that accentuates the undulating surfaces while preserving crisp transitions along the dorsal ridge and flipper edges, inviting the hand as much as the eye.

This sculpture measures 9 x 7 x 3 inches tall, a substantial tabletop format that displays elegantly on a plinth or case shelf. The underside is smoothly finished and bears the expected workshop handling marks, with the overall condition presenting very well, showing only light surface rubbing and scattered natural inclusions consistent with the material. Included is the original Government of Canada authenticity certification tag identifying the artist as Leo Uttaq, the community as Taloyoak, the date as 1994, and the title as Seal Spirit, confirming the work’s provenance and cultural attribution.

For collectors of Canadian Indigenous art, Inuit art, and Nunavut modern sculpture, Seal Spirit exemplifies Taloyoak aesthetics of the period, uniting sculptural clarity with a resonant narrative of transformation and the seal’s central role in Arctic life. Museum quality in both presence and craftsmanship, this 1994 serpentine carving by Leo Uttaq offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire a fully certified, exhibition-worthy work that is immediately ready for placement in a serious collection or institutional display.
57327

  • Medium: Sculptures Inuit

Accepted Forms of Payment:

COD (cash on delivery), MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Other, Paypal, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Please refer to item 20-24 in Oakwood Auctions Terms and Conditions of Sale for all Collection and Shipping terms

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

Oakwood Auctions

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 20% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$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