Rare Inupiaq Baleen basket w/ carved bone top by Abe Simmonds

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About the Item

This rare Baleen woven basket came from the estate of a wealthy woman who travelled the world volunteering her time for charity work. She was in Alaska in the 1950's and likely purchased this rare piece then. It is signed on the base made by Abe P S Barrow Alaska. Mr. Simmonds work is highly collectible as he was considered a master weaver of baleen. He lived from 1893-1969, so this piece is at least 60 years old. I have not been able to find any works by this master for sale, they only reside in museums and private collections. New baskets sell for thousands this is by a master and is an early example. It is in pristine condition making it a true treasure. A brief explanation ftom the University of oregon's collection follows;
Baleen, also known as “whalebone,” is a tough keratinous substance from the mouths of filter-feeding whales. In texture, it is comparable to modern plastics, and has long been used by Native Arctic peoples to make buckets, cups, and other containers, ice scoops, sled runners, fish line, lashing and nets. Coiled baleen baskets represent a recent adaptation from traditional coiled willow-root baskets. They were first produced between 1914 and 1918, predominantly for a tourist market. Over time, distinctive styles have developed, and since the 1970s, more women have become involved in what was originally predominantly a male occupation.

The eight coiled baleen baskets in the Museum of Natural and Cultural History’s collections were made by Abe Simmonds, Joe Sikvayugak, and Nicholas Makalik, of Barrow, Alaska, and George Omnik, of Point Hope. Where known, dates are between 1954 and 1965. The baskets were purchased by Jack High and donated to the museum in 1968. Photography by Chris White..

Dimensions:
Height: 4.75 in (12.07 cm)Diameter: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1950-1959
Date of Manufacture:
1950's
Condition:
Basket is excellent and ivory or bone shows age appropriate wear with some discoloration and minor splits.
Seller Location:
Palm Springs, CA
Reference Number:
1stDibs: U11010383501315

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