Pelewook Alaskan Inuit Carved Walrus Oosik

Pelewook (Alaskan Inuit). A carved walrus oosik, or baculum, featuring terminal animal head carvings. The proximal end is carved as a polar bear head with dark inset eyes and an open mouth, while the distal end depicts a walrus head with inset dark eyes and two slender ivory tusks. Each carved element is separated from the natural bone shaft by a dark band, likely baleen, showing a slight texture. The central bone shaft exhibits a polished surface with natural color variations ranging from cream to a warm fossilized orange-brown patina, and displays characteristic porous pitting. The piece is signed Pelewook in black ink on the shaft near the proximal end. 21" L. Location: 14C

Condition Report:
The item displays natural surface pitting and variations in color throughout the bone. Minor surface cracking and age-related wear are visible on the dark decorative bands. The ivory tusks are intact and the terminal carvings show no visible losses.