Traditional Inuit Appraisal

Inuit Hunter Stone Sculpture with Bow and Arrow

This is a hand-carved stone sculpture depicting an Inuit hunter in a dynamic, crouched pose, aiming a bow and arrow. The sculpture is crafted from a dark, possibly steatite or 'soapstone' material, exhibiting a semi-glossy finish that suggests polishing. The dark gray to black coloration is consistent throughout the figure, with only slight variations in tone visible, likely due to natural stone veins or light reflection. The hunter wears a parka with a defined hood, detailed subtly around the face. The facial features are stylized yet expressive, with deep-set eyes, a prominent nose, and a serious mouth. The hands are integrated into the overall form, holding a light-colored bow and a matching arrow, which appear to be made from a different material, possibly bone, antler, or light wood, strung with a thin, white cord. These lighter elements contrast sharply with the dark stone figure. The construction is solid and appears to be one continuous piece of stone for the main figure, with the bow and arrow being separate, attached components. There is a visible patina on the stone, indicative of its age and handling, but no obvious chips, cracks, or repairs are discernible from the image, suggesting good overall condition. The craftsmanship indicates a skilled artisan, with smooth contours and well-defined forms despite the minimalist style. The style points towards traditional Inuit art, likely from the mid to late 20th century. The piece demonstrates a sense of movement and narrative, capturing a specific cultural activity.