Description

A compact, hand-carved soapstone bust depicting an Inuit man wearing a close-fitting hood. The sculptor reduced the figure to strong, architectural forms: a long angular nose, narrow eyes, restrained mouth, and a smoothly rounded hood framing the face. Incised lines define the facial features and clothing, while the stone’s mottled gray-green surface gives the sculpture a quietly weathered presence.

The carving is unsigned. A historic “Eskimo Art Canada” label remains affixed to the underside. This label supports a Canadian origin but does not identify the artist, community, or precise date of manufacture. The work was previously described at auction as a vintage Inuit soapstone sculpture and measured approximately 4.75 inches high.

Object Details

Artist/Maker: Unidentified Inuit artist
Title:Bust of a Man
Origin: Canada
Date: Mid-to-late 20th century, exact date unknown
Medium: Carved soapstone
Dimensions: Approximately 4.75 inches high
Signature: No apparent signature
Labels: Historic “Eskimo Art Canada” label to underside
Provenance: Acquired from the secondary market

Condition

Good vintage condition. The stone displays scattered surface scratches, scuffs, small abrasions, natural inclusions, and variations in color consistent with age, handling, and the inherent character of soapstone. There is visible wear to the underside and minor rubbing along several raised edges. No major breakage or obvious restoration is apparent from visual inspection.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

Purchase Details

Price: $180
Shipping quoted separately. Please inquire for additional photographs, condition details, or a shipping estimate.