Carved ivory boxes of this type date back at least to the Old Bering Sea culture on St. Lawrence Island. Often referred to as “point holders,” they were used to store ground slate points that were inserted into ivory harpoon heads. While similar pieces carved from wood have been identified as “fungus ash boxes,” associated with chewing tobacco, or “trinket boxes,” used to hold sundry small items, the sea mammal imagery and the use of ivory suggests this container held harpoon blades.

The artist’s skill in crafting this elaborate box, cut from a single piece of ivory, is evident in the openwork carving of the chain links connecting the body of the container to the pair of seal head pendants. This linked composition may symbolize the immutable relationship between hunter and prey and provide magical support in binding the spirit of the animal to its fate, ensuring a successful hunt. Embodying the beliefs of those who used it, this work is both a tangible manifestation of the idea of the hunt and a practical tool to be employed therein.

Known in simpler form since prehistoric times, carved ivory chain link compositions grew more complex over the centuries and became some of the finest achievements of Arctic art during the nineteenth century. An old repair on the side of this box attests to the importance and value its owner placed upon it.