Rare Inupiaq Baleen basket w/ carved bone top by Abe Simmonds
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Rare Inupiaq Baleen basket w/ carved bone top by Abe Simmonds
About the Item
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:
- Period:
- 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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