Harpoon counterweight
Technologically sophisticated, the harpoon was an essential tool for hunting on the Bering Sea. Carvers used walrus ivory to make components of the long, spear-like instrument, including its counterweights, or stabilizers, sometimes referred to as "winged objects" due to their shape. The elegant sculptural form of this example is complemented by the engraved curvilinear designs. The top and outer edges may be inscribed with animal features.
Artwork Details
- Title: Harpoon counterweight
- Date: 300–500 CE
- Geography: Made in Alaska, United States
- Culture: Old Bering Sea III, Native American
- Medium: Walrus ivory
- Dimensions: 2 1/2 × 7 1/2 × 1 1/2 in. (6.4 × 19.1 × 3.8 cm)
- Credit Line: The Charles and Valerie Diker Collection of Native American Art, Gift of Charles and Valerie Diker, 2019
- Object Number: 2019.456.17
- Curatorial Department: The American Wing
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