Anthropomorphic figurine

Reference : 105

Anthropomorphic figurine

Marine mammal ivory
Dimension: Height 11.3cm
Punuk or Thule civilization
Presumed date of manufacture: 500 – 1700 A.D. JC
Bering Strait
Alaska, Usa

Source :
Del Nordquist Collection, USA
Max Defacq Collection, France

Thule artists generally depict their figurative subjects standing, with both hands resting on the abdomen or behind the back, like this one.

The upper part of the torso is clearly bare, and is engraved with “V” motifs on the chest, designs often found on Thule figurines. Sometimes interpreted as a tattoo, these motifs can also be found on a band of amulets or a necklace.

Other engraved details outline a belt at the waist.

This figurine is in excellent condition, with a light honey-brown patina resulting from soil mineralization.

It is assumed that these figures, almost always female, were dolls.

However, it is not certain whether they were used as toys for girls or as female fertility aids.

Price: €7,500

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