Engraved Whale Tooth
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Object Label
These two engraved objects, a walrus tusk and a sperm whale tooth, encapsulate aspects of Indigenous Arctic life, particularly the use of natural materials and the importance of hunting. The tusk is decorated with depictions of men hunting walrus in boats, of village huts, and of women preparing food. The tooth presents a variety of hunting scenes in which men chase a walrus, harpoon a whale, spear a bear, and aim bows and arrows at a caribou. One especially intriguing scene shows three men dancing and holding circular drums.
Caption
Yup'ik or; Iñupiaq. Engraved Whale Tooth, late 19th century. Sperm whale tooth, black ash or graphite, oil, 6 1/2 × 3 × 2 in. (16.5 × 7.6 × 5.1 cm) mount: 6 1/2 × 3 × 1 3/4 in. (16.5 × 7.6 × 4.4 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Robert B. Woodward, 20.895. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Title
Engraved Whale Tooth
Date
late 19th century
Geography
Place made: Alaska, United States
Medium
Sperm whale tooth, black ash or graphite, oil
Classification
Dimensions
6 1/2 × 3 × 2 in. (16.5 × 7.6 × 5.1 cm) mount: 6 1/2 × 3 × 1 3/4 in. (16.5 × 7.6 × 4.4 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Robert B. Woodward
Accession Number
20.895
Frequent Art Questions
Why are three pieces of Alaskan art paired with a piece from Brazil?
Great question! The installation is by theme and use rather than country of origin.What is the theme for this case?The theme is talismans and charms. The necklaces may have been worn by a shaman or medicine man. Images of animals on the Tukano necklace from Brazil acknowledges the important relationship between humans and animals. All three pieces are made from natural materials found within these specific regions.There is a case of musical instruments from different countries nearby that keeps with the concept of themes within the exhibition.Okay, I'll check that out, thank you!You're welcome!
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