Al Mayac’s Crested Puffin Carving

Inupiaq artist Al Mayav skillfully carved and colored this intricate ivory crested puffin carving. Not including the whale bone base, the carvings is 1 .3 inches long, 0.75 inches wide, and 2 inches high. This piece features detailed carving and ink coloring that highlight Al’s artistic talent. Moreover, as a member of the renowned Peter Mayac family from King Island, Al is celebrated for his carvings and scrimshaw work on walrus ivory, often depicting birds and mammals native to Alaska. Consequently, collectors highly seek his unique carvings. The crested puffin carving is priced at $490.

The Inupiaq People and King Island

Originally from King Island, the Inupiaq people now primarily reside on mainland Alaska. A tuberculosis outbreak during World War II, the closure of local schools, and economic opportunities off the island led to the relocation of most families since the 1970s. As a result, many Inupiaq now live near Nome, Alaska, and continue practicing traditional crafts such as making baleen baskets.

The Cultural Significance of Walruses

Walruses play a crucial role in the nutritional and cultural lives of Alaska Natives. They provide a rich source of food through their meat, blubber, skin, and organs. Additionally, the Inupiaq process hides to cover boats and carve tusks into ivory artworks. Ultimately, these carvings are sold to collectors, providing an essential source of income for the community.

For more information on Alaskan ivory carvings, visit Tribal Crafts.

For historical context on the Inupiaq relocation, refer to this Alaskan Native Studies article.