Currently not on view
Female figure with a baby,
100–400 CE
Okvik
1997-105
More Context
Didactics
This is one of four known Okvik figures carrying a small figure (baby human or animal?) on the torso. The small creature on the back of this “singing” figurine has the same splayed posture seen in other figures. Collins identified it as a suckling bear of southern Eskimo and Northwest Coast mythology. The heads of mother and baby are typical of Okvik style, but the figure is unusual for its joined, pedestal-type feet and crudely carved lower half. The fourth such figure (headless) was purchased by Admiral Frederick Zeusler of the Coast Guard; its present whereabouts is unknown.
Information
Title
Female figure with a baby
Dates
100–400 CE
Medium
Walrus ivory
Dimensions
16.4 x 4.5 x 2.8 cm. (6 7/16 x 1 3/4 x 1 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
The Lloyd E. Cotsen, Class of 1950, Eskimo Bone and Ivory Carving Collection
Object Number
1997-105
Place Excavated
North America, United States, Alaska, Provenance unknown
Culture
Materials
Subject
