Hunting charm

This ornament in the shape of a seal’s head emerging from the ice is pierced at the base with four holes for attachment to a garment, used as a hunting charm.

“Seals were an important source of food during the winter months, and as soon as the ice was firm enough to cross, hunters would set off with their dogs, sleds and harpoons in search of seal breathing holes.

As soon as a hole was visible, the hunter would place a long piece of straw across the snow-covered dome of the hole. When a seal approached the hole, its presence was first signaled by the sound of exhaled air. When the straw began to rise, the hunter knew that the seal’s head was ready to emerge. “¹
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1- William W Fitzhugh. 1993. Inua: Spirit world of the Bering Sea Eskimo
Exhibition catalog, p.11

Price : Reserved