Inuit people, Western Alaska

13.5 inches, wood, reeds, feathers, fur

An important part the shaman’s rituals or a religious dance, masks made by the Inuit often represent the sun, moon, people, and many different kinds of animals. We know this is a seal because it has "seal totem 1" carved on the rear. I think there’s a good chance it was made by a shaman, probably for trade or to sell to a visitor. Inuits have been supplementing their income this way for well over a century. This seal mask is very much in the native tradition and quite artistic in an abstract kind of way. The wood face is about 6.5 inches high without the head ornaments and superstructure. Very good condition, though some of the down tufts at the four corners are missing. It should be easy to replace them if you wish.