John Pullock’s Hunter in Kayak Carving

Inupiaq artist John Pulluck skillfully carved this hunter in kayak carving. The carvings is 6.75 inches long, 0.75 inches wide, and 2 inches high. This piece features adetailed carving that highlight John’s artistic talent. John Pullock is known for his hunter in kayak carvings for which the hunter has a spear and a paddle. The price of the carving is $375 and for sale in the US only. Although John made the carving, it is unsigned.

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.