Bird before 1500

This bird carving, likely made by an Inuit artist, reflects the intimate knowledge of the Arctic environment, shaped in organic materials. These materials--bone, antler, and possibly walrus ivory, each imbued with unique properties of density and texture--have been carefully carved, likely with tools of stone and metal. The carving process itself, a meticulous act of subtraction, reveals the artist's deep understanding of the material's inherent qualities. The smooth finish and careful detailing, achieved through patient labor, mimic the natural forms of Arctic wildlife. These miniature sculptures were made for trade and sale, to be acquired as novelties by visitors from other parts of the world. Yet we cannot separate these sculptures from the rich cultural heritage of the Inuit people, whose traditional knowledge has been condensed into these small-scale forms. This object stands as a reminder that all art is rooted in both material conditions, and a specific cultural context.