Lot 91

Eskimo Oosik Walrus Ivory Carving early 1900

Estimate: $500 - $1,200

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
The lot features an original rare Eskimo Inuit Native American Indian oosik showing Walrus tusk ivory carved ends dating to circa early 1900. The oosik is the baculum, or penis bone of the Walrus and is long valued as a totemic by the Eskimo people. The rare piece has carved walrus tusk ivory figural effigy pieces on each end with one showing a growling Polar Bear and the other a Walrus. Both of the carvings are highly detailed and show a wonderful original handmade scrimshaw artwork in red and black. The piece shows some wear with slight chipping having the Walrus tusks being missing. The Ivory was taken legallry by the Eskimo Indigenous people in Alaska. Overall the oosik is of a very large size and is truly a wonderful example. Measures overall 29.5"L and approximately 7.5" in outside circumference at the widest point. The two end pieces had previously be re-attached.

Condition

For a complete representation of condition and for additional images please call 800-686-4216. It is the buyer’s responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.