Description:

A powerful and characterful example of late 20th century Inuit sculpture, this original 1996 carving by Gjoa Haven artist Louie Makkituq presents a spirited transformation figure titled Dancing Seal Spirit on Base. Hand carved with complete confidence in a dense, dark serpentine stone - often referred to as soapstone in the trade - the figure stands upright on a separately carved and integrated serpentine base, rising to 8 inches tall with a commanding presence. The artist animates the subject through boldly faceted fins that read as raised arms in mid dance, deeply scored linear cuts to suggest rippling pelt and motion, and a lifted head with open muzzle and light circular eye inlays that bring the spirit to life. From every angle the sculpture reveals intentional asymmetry and rhythmic carving that capture the sense of a seal mid step - a classic northern expression of movement and shamanic transformation. The surfaces show attractive natural veining and mineral inclusions throughout, which the artist has embraced to heighten texture and depth.

This work is accompanied by its original Government of Canada authenticity certification tag, fully completed by the artist with name, community, title, and date - Louie Makkituq, Gjoa Haven, 1996, Dancing Seal Spirit on Base - adding unquestionable provenance for the discerning collector. Dimensions 4 x 2 1/2 x 8 inches tall. The sculpture is in excellent overall condition for its age with minor edge rubs and tiny handling marks visible under raking light only, as well as natural stone inclusions and faint tool traces consistent with Makkituq’s hand finishing.

For advanced buyers seeking an evocative and highly displayable Inuit carving - museum quality in concept and execution - this 1996 Dancing Seal Spirit on Base by Louie Makkituq offers superb movement, strong sculptural mass, and the desirable combination of Gjoa Haven origin, serpentine medium, and complete Canadian certification. An outstanding acquisition for collections focused on Inuit art, transformation imagery, and late 20th century northern carving.
90037

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April 5, 2026 11:00 AM EDT
Stouffville, ON, CA

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Bid Increments
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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