Alaska Art Appraisal

Carved Baleen Scrimshaw Panel 'Top Of The World, Barrow, Alaska.'

This is a baleen carving, which appears to be a scrimshaw-style engraving on a polished strip of baleen. The primary material is baleen, characterized by its naturally fibrous, dark, and semi-translucent quality, exhibiting natural vertical striations and varying shades of gray to black, with some hints of lighter, possibly greenish or brownish undertones depending on the light. The object is elongated and relatively thin, suggesting it might be a single plate of baleen. There are at least two distinct carved or engraved scenes depicted. The upper scene features a bird-like creature, possibly an eagle or raven, perched on a branch, rendered with fine lines and intricate details that suggest a high level of craftsmanship. The lower scene portrays a draped figure, possibly a shaman or elder, holding what appears to be a pipe, also executed with detailed line work. Text is inscribed vertically along the left edge, reading "Top Of The World" near the upper scene and "Barrow, Alaska." near the lower scene. This inscription provides context for the origin and possible theme of the artwork. The surface appears to be well-preserved with a slight sheen indicating polishing, though some very minor surface wear or faint scratches might be present consistent with handling or age. There are no obvious signs of significant damage like cracks or chips and the engraving details remain clear and well-defined. The natural color variations of the baleen contribute to the aesthetic of the piece, creating a unique background for the carved figures. The style suggests early to mid-20th century, possibly contemporary Native Alaskan or Inuit artistry, known for its intricate scrimshaw on organic materials like baleen. The quality of the etching and the narrative depicted indicate skilled workmanship.