Vintage Walrus Ivory Figurine, Inuit Indigenous Art signed by Artist R B Kokuluk

Small but well carved, this vintage Inuit ivory piece encapsulates a small piece of the rich history of Bering Strait indigenous people. Featuring a walrus emerging onto an ice floe, its pose is well carved and lively.

Signed by the artist Robert B. Kokuluk (1952-2018), who was active from the 1980s until his death in 2018, this piece shows both his skill and indigenous heritage as Bering Strait Inupiaq [King Island]. It should be noted that the indigenous people of King Island were displaced in the 1960s after their children were forcibly taken by the Department of Indian Affairs, which completely disrupted their way of life.

Several figures from this community were master carvers, and were exceptionally skilled in creating pieces from walrus ivory. In particular, a similar piece by Kokuluk is in the collection of the National Museum of the American Indian. His pieces of musk oxen, bear and walruses are particularly desirable, and are particularly rare here in Australia.

Measurements: 9 x 4.5 cm, approx 4.5 cm high.

Price marked at $350 AUD; in excellent vintage condition.