Inuit-Style Soapstone Carving of an Owl and Owlet

This is a hand-carved soapstone figurine depicting an adult owl and a smaller owlet nestled together, likely of Canadian Inuit or similar Indigenous origin. The piece is crafted from a dark, variegated soapstone, possibly steatite, featuring a deep charcoal to black base color with prominent white and grey striations and veining throughout the stone. The sculpture measures approximately 3 to 4 inches in height. The figures are stylized with rounded, bulbous bodies and large, concentric circular eyes that have been deeply incised to create a striking contrast against the dark stone. Fine, linear etched lines are used extensively across the surface to represent the texture of feathers. The carving exhibits a smooth, polished finish on the rounded surfaces, while the incised details retain a Chalky white appearance known as 'frosting,' which is a common characteristic of soapstone carving when the surface is scratched. While no specific maker's mark or syllabic signature is visible in the provided angle, such pieces often date from the mid-to-late 20th century. The condition appears well-maintained with no visible fractures or major chips; however, there are minor scuffs and surface scratches consistent with the soft nature of the material and age. The craftsmanship displays a charming, folk-art quality with a focus on form and expression rather than strictly anatomical accuracy.