Sculpture Item Number: Na978 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Figure with a human head and a bird's body carved from mottled grey-green stone with dark green veins. Human head has shoulder-length and a broad face turned to look over the left shoulder. Body features stylized, folded wings and fully articulated feet.
History Of Use
Shamans were individuals who had been exposed to the transcendental world and had mastered the spirits. This exposure gave them special powers such as transforming themselves partially into animals and birds. Transformation is a popular theme in contemporary Inuit art because it represents a mythical time when humans and animals were equals.
Iconographic Meaning
The presence of a human head on the body of a bird indicates that the sculpture is of a shaman capable of transforming himself.
Item History
- Made by Qavaroak Tunnillie (Maker) in Cape Dorset, Nunavut, Canada and Kinngait, Nunavut, Canada during 1983
- Owned by Inuit Gallery before January 13, 1984
- Received from Inuit Gallery (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) on January 13, 1984
What
Who
- Culture
- Inuit
- Creator
- Qavaroak Tunnillie (Maker)
- Previous Owner
- Inuit Gallery
- Received from
- Inuit Gallery (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Cape Dorset, Nunavut, Canada and Kinngait, Nunavut, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- during 1983
- Ownership Date
- before January 13, 1984
- Acquisition Date
- on January 13, 1984
Other
- Item Classes
- carvings & sculpture
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 48
- Accession Number
- 0930/0001