Lot Essay
Such objects were affixed to kayaks to serve as charms and fasteners (see Ray, 1975, p. 106, fig. 33).
Details
A FINE ALEUT WALRUS IVORY SEA OTTER CHARM
The front feet raised to the chin, the lower curled upwards, striated ribs, the torso and eyes inlaid with beads, on the reverse, a raised ridge pierced three times for attachment, 3½in. (8.9cm.) long
The front feet raised to the chin, the lower curled upwards, striated ribs, the torso and eyes inlaid with beads, on the reverse, a raised ridge pierced three times for attachment, 3½in. (8.9cm.) long
Provenance
James Hooper, London (no. 1414)
Christie's, London, 1977, lot 129
Christie's, London, 1977, lot 129
Literature
Phelps, 1976, p.293, pl. 172, p. 442