Bird before 1500

This collection of carved ivory and wood figures is a testament to the artistic skill of the Inuit people. Created before the year 1500, the small sculptures depict a variety of animals, including birds, walruses, bears, and seals, that were essential to their survival in the Arctic. The figures, ranging in size from 1/2 to 5/8 inches, demonstrate the Inuit’s keen observation of the natural world, and their ability to capture the essence of their prey in miniature form. The presence of a container suggests these figures were not solely utilitarian, but may have also served as decorative elements, perhaps for storytelling or ritualistic purposes. This collection, housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, offers a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of the Inuit people.