Lot 273
Arctic Region, Northwestern United States, Alaska Inuit (possibly Siberian Yupik or Chukchi), late 20th to 21st century CE. An impressive and well-preserved walrus skull featuring full-length ivory tusks adorned with scrimshaw engravings. Each tusk displays incised imagery of salmon in profile. The left tusk bears a small artist's signature located near the tail fin of the lower salmon; though not fully legible - it is unclear if it is Roman lettering or Cyrillic characters, suggesting possible Siberian origin and attribution to a native artist from the Russia side of the Bering Sea. Size of skull + tusks: 33.5" L x 7.25" W (85.1 cm x 18.4 cm); single tusk: 26.5" L x 2.5" W (67.3 cm x 6.4 cm)
This item is made of or contains walrus ivory and is classified under the ESA (Endangered Species Act) as an exempt piece. Due to federal and state regulations regarding the sale of ivory, this item cannot be shipped internationally or to individuals residing in the following U.S. states: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington. Additionally, buyers are responsible for ensuring that their purchase complies with all local laws and regulations concerning ivory. We guarantee that this piece meets the criteria for an ESA antique exemption under U.S. Federal law, however, we advise buyers to consult with their local authorities to confirm their ability to legally acquire, possess, trade, or sell this item in your state of residence. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and the Endangered Species Act (ESA), Alaska Natives are permitted to harvest marine mammals for subsistence purposes and to create and sell authentic Native handicrafts, which may include materials such as whale and walrus ivory.
Provenance: private El Dorado Hills, California, USA collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
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#195103
- Condition: Skull has clear fixative / coating to stabilize the surface. Natural black striations on the tusks, and natural ossification to the bone. Skull is sliced in half for mounting flush against a wall. There is a simple thread tied to the skull, but we suggest using a more secure wire or mounting system to display this piece.
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| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |