Charm c. late 19th century

This small “Charm,” was carved by a Tlingit artist. The piece is made of dense, cream-colored animal bone, incised with great precision. Look closely, and you can see that the shape is determined by the material itself. The bone gives the piece a naturalistic, almost weathered quality. It feels solid, and the careful cuts and curves suggest the artist was highly skilled in working with bone. The incised lines, circles and rectangles, are a stark contrast with the softness of the material. A hole was carved out, so the charm could be worn, or attached to something else. Historically, bone carving was essential to many indigenous cultures, offering a sustainable way to produce both utilitarian and spiritual objects. This charm reflects the rich cultural traditions of the Tlingit people and their deep connection to the natural world. It invites us to think about the meaning of objects, and the ways in which making is tied to wider social and spiritual beliefs.