Carving Item Number: Na1143 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Small carved seal head, flattened at back with an oval hole at centre. Two holes on bottom with loose wooden plugs broken off at surface. Top surface has a row of incised circles with dots inside; wedge-shaped snout with incised v-shaped mouth, whispers and nostrils; eyelash-like eyebrows above round eyes, dots behind eyes. All circles are blackened.
History Of Use
Thought to be a harpoon thumb rest or finger attachment (McCarthy). The circle and dot motif of northwestern Alaska is a common element in prehistoric and more modern implements. Variations of this motif are wide spread along the Pacific coast of North America (Collins). Seals are an essential game animal for coastal people, providing food oil for heat and light, and for various other items such as clothing and utensils.
Iconographic Meaning
Seal images are commonly found on various types of representations and tools associated with hunting, in coastal areas.
Item History
- Made in Alaska, USA
- Owned by Marianne Koerner and Walter C. Koerner before January 8, 1981
- Received from Marianne Koerner (Donor) and Walter C. Koerner (Donor) on January 8, 1981
What
Who
- Culture
- Inupiaq ?
- Previous Owner
- Marianne Koerner and Walter C. Koerner
- Received from
- Marianne Koerner (Donor) and Walter C. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Alaska, USA
When
- Ownership Date
- before January 8, 1981
- Acquisition Date
- on January 8, 1981
Other
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 48
- Accession Number
- 0697/0065