Carved Eagle Figure Appraisal

Carved Eagle Figure

The item is a naturalistic carving of an eagle, likely crafted from walrus ivory or bone, given the context of "Ivory Alaskan art." It measures approximately 4-6 inches in height, fitting comfortably within an adult's hand as shown in the image. The material exhibits a creamy off-white to yellowish-brown coloration, with natural striations and areas of darker pigmentation, particularly noticeable on the body and lower sections, suggesting the inherent characteristics of the raw material or a natural patina over time. The carving depicts the eagle with its wings held close to its body, possibly in a perched or resting position. The head is detailed with a prominent beak and incised eyes, giving the bird a focused gaze. The feathers are rendered through a series of shallow, parallel incisions and sculpted layers, particularly around the neck and on the lower body, resembling the texture of plumage. The base or feet of the sculpture appear to integrate into the overall form rather than being sharply defined, with carved elements suggesting talons or tail feathers that provide a stable, flat base for display. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with attention to detail in the bird's anatomy and feathering, indicative of skilled carving. There are no immediately obvious signs of major damage or repairs, though the natural discoloration might be mistaken for wear. The surface appears smooth in some areas and exhibits a soft sheen typical of polished bone or ivory. The style suggests an indigenous Alaskan or North American carving tradition, likely from the mid-20th century or earlier, aligning with historical production of such art pieces from natural materials.