Minimalist vintage mid-century authentic Inuit soapstone carving of a seal, hand-carved in Arviat (historically known to collectors as Eskimo Point), Nunavut, Canada.This exceptional piece features dual authentication markings on its base, making it a solid addition to any collection of Canadian Indigenous art:
The Inuit Disc Number: Hand-incised on the base is the historic code E1-1428. The Disc Number system was used by the Canadian government from the 1940s until 1972 to identify Inuit artists. The prefix E1 signifies the Western Hudson Bay region, specifically identifying the artist as Mary (Marie) Kudluk (Kudlak) from Arviat (historically Eskimo Point), Nunavut.
The "Peter" Signature: Features a faint, hand-carved name inscription reading "Peter" directly above the disc number, documenting a unique historical marker of family collaboration or the late-1960s/early-1970s name-transition era.
The Government Igloo Tag: Retains its rare, original Canadian government "Igloo Tag" (Canada Eskimo Art trademark) sticker with the distribution code "2". Established in 1958, this official tag guarantees cultural and historical authenticity, ensuring it is a genuine, hand-carved work of art made by an Inuk artist.
Material & Style:
Crafted between 1958 and 1972, this sculpture is made from a dark, heavily textured stone characteristic of the Arviat community. It beautifully showcases the raw, powerful, and minimalist style that Arviat carvers are celebrated for, prioritizing expressive form over hyper-polished detailing.
It is 9 cm tall, 8.5 cm wide and 4.5 cm deep, weighing about 450 grams unpacked.
Condition:
Very good vintage condition with natural light-colored veining, minor surface character marks inherent to the soapstone medium, and crisp, legible historic markings on the unpolished base.
Please view the pictures carefully and let us know if you have any questions.
(Item 0302)
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