Box Handle with Polar Bear Head – Western Alaska

Arctic artists carved a vast array of objects in ivory, from magical charms and solemn figures to everyday, utilitarian implements. Animal images, especially those of marine mammals, were some of their favored subjects, and any object, no matter how small or prosaic, presented an opportunity for creativity. The box handle presented here has been reimagined by its carver as a polar bear. Despite its small size, the artist was able to invest its simple features with a remarkable degree of expressiveness and sensitivity. With ears tucked back and inquisitive eyes gazing out beneath a gentle brow ridge, the bear seems almost aware. Nostrils are flared and the bear shows its teeth, which have been carefully picked out between the slightly open jaws. A handwritten Beasley Collection label is found on the underside of the piece, which reads “Esquimaux. Behring Straits. Womens Box Handle. 27.7.24.”

19th century
Walrus ivory
L: 5 3/8"
Provenance:

Harry Geoffrey & Irene Beasley, Cranmore Place, Chislehurst, England (cat. no. 27.7.24)

Faith-Dorian & Martin Wright Collection, New York

Item Number:
649
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