MAINLAND, EARLY THULE

‍

The Thule culture, precursors to the modern Inuit peoples, inhabited the North American Arctic from around 1000 to 1600 ce. Their material culture was crafted largely from the remains of the animals they hunted, and encompassed a wide range of utilitarian and spiritual objects. Among these were a multitude of small figurines carved from ivory and bone, which depicted both humans and animals and sometimes reflected shamanistic themes.

Some human images were worn as pendants, and while the true scope of their use is unknown, they are thought to fit into the broader, documented Arctic tradition of magical effigies and amulet-making. These objects symbolized benevolent spirits and helped to bridge the physical and spiritual realms.

This compelling pendant figure is enigmatic and its symbolism may never be known. In its archaic quality, it resembles Paleolithic ‘Venus’ figures from Europe. Its thick body and limbs, arms pressed close and crossed against the belly, form a strong, unbroken mass. The posture, with extended legs, is unusual and its meaning is unclear. A doll-like head showing horizontal eyes, long nose, and open mouth sits stoutly on the shoulders. The ancient ivory has aged to a dark, warm brown, lending the figure a leathery hue that deepens its powerfully physical character. This simple, honest and unembellished image, like many Arctic ivory figures, seems to echo with deep feeling.

‍