Inuit Soapstone Narwhal Pod Sculpture Appraisal

Inuit Soapstone Narwhal Pod Sculpture

This is a hand-carved stone sculpture depicting a pod of three narwhals surfacing together. The piece is crafted from a dark, variegated serpentine or soapstone, displaying a rich palette of deep forest green with mottled black and grey inclusions typical of Arctic quarry stone. The sculpture features a multi-tiered arrangement where two smaller narwhals are positioned atop a larger, more prominent narwhal, all anchored to an angular, solid stone base that mimics the appearance of sheared ice or underwater rock. Each whale is outfitted with a long, slender white tusk, likely carved from bone or antler, featuring a spiral texture that is characteristic of the species. The stone bodies have a smooth, polished finish that enhances the natural luster and highlights the tactile quality of the medium. Measuring approximately 8 to 10 inches in length, the piece displays high-quality craftsmanship with rounded, organic forms and small, detailed apertures for the eyes. While no maker's mark is visible on the top or sides, the style is strongly indicative of 20th-century Inuit art, likely from a Canadian Arctic community. The condition appears excellent with no visible chips or fractures to the stone bodies, though the delicate tusks are vulnerable points and should be inspected for secure attachment or historical repairs.