Ron Apangalook’s Floating Otter

Overview

Reknowned Yupik artist Ron Apangalook from Gamble, Alaska, crafted this floating otter from walrus ivory. Ron carved the otter with great detail. The otter has a baleen nose, and is holding a real clam shell. Ron has signed the bak of the carving with his traditional “QAY” signature. Measuring 4.2  inches long, 1.4 inches wide, and 1 inch high, it is available for US sale only and is priced at $250.

Ron Apangalook’s Artistic Legacy

Ron Apangalook’s carvings stand out for their intricate detail and use of premium materials. Specifically, Ron’s choice of flawless walrus ivory ensured a smooth, impeccable finish on his pieces. Furthermore, the addition of baleen nose enhances the realism and detail, making his carvings highly desirable for collectors.

Yupik People and Their Art

The Yupik people, mainly residing in the villages of Gambell and Savoonga on the St. Lawrence Island, excel in walrus ivory carvings. Located off the Northwest coast of Alaska, 32 miles from the Siberian coast in the Bering Sea, these villages house fewer than 1500 people. Almost all inhabitants are Yupik Eskimos, also known as Siberian Yupik, sharing a language and cultural connections with Yupik communities in Russia. Additionally, some Yupik live near the Bering Sea on the mainland coast of Alaska.

Cultural Significance of Walrus Ivory

Walruses serve as a crucial resource for Alaska Natives, providing both nutritional and cultural benefits. The meat, blubber, skin, and organs offer a rich source of food, while the hides cover boats. Moreover, the tusks, carved into intricate figures, are sold to collectors, generating income for the Yupik people. Aaron Oseuk’s carvings exemplify the high level of craftsmanship and cultural importance of walrus ivory art in Yupik society.

For more information on Alaskan ivory carvings and to explore other works, visit Tribal Crafts. Additional context on the Yupik people and their artistry can be found in the blook Savoonga Ivory Carvers.