Transformational figure

Okvik, Native American

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 746

This female figure with an elongated head and torso appears part-human and part-sea mammal or fish. Although its exact purpose is specific to the owner, the narrow opening at the center may signify the boundary between the physical and spirit worlds. Carvings such as this one are among the most aesthetically refined of the Old Bering Sea sculptural works.

Transformational figure, Walrus ivory, Okvik, Native American

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Open Access

As part of the Met's Open Access policy, you can freely copy, modify and distribute this image, even for commercial purposes.

API

Public domain data for this object can also be accessed using the Met's Open Access API.

Transformational figure, Walrus ivory, Okvik, Native American
Transformational figure, Walrus ivory, Okvik, Native American

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.