Inuit Carved Soapstone Muskox

Artist: Inuit School.
Title: The Muskox.
Medium: Carved Soapstone.
Condition: This work is in good condition, with some minor losses commensurate with material and handling.
Provenance: Private Collection Sydney, Australia.

About: Inuit art, also known as Eskimo art, refers to artwork produced by the Inuit, the people of the Arctic who were previously known as Eskimos, a term that is now often considered offensive. Historically, their preferred medium was walrus ivory, but since the establishment of southern markets for Inuit art in 1945, figurative works carved in relatively soft stone such as soapstone, serpentinite, or argillite have also become popular.

Inuit carvings not only celebrate the artistic ability of their creators but also play a crucial role in the preservation of Inuit culture and traditions. They serve as tangible links to the past, allowing for the continuation of stories and practices that have shaped the Arctic peoples for millennia. Through their exceptional craftsmanship, Inuit artists instil profound respect for nature, a deep sense of community, and spiritual connections within their work. Exhibited in galleries and private collections around the world, Inuit carvings provide a glimpse into a vibrant and multifaceted culture that thrives within the harshest of landscapes.