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Artworks
UNIDENTIFIED ARTIST, GREENLAND
Tupilak, early 1970sivory and black inlay, 4.75 x 2 x 1.25 in (12.1 x 5.1 x 3.2 cm)
unsigned.
LOT 129
ESTIMATE: $500 — $800
PRICE REALIZED: $960.00Further images
Originally, Greenlandic tupilaks were extremely dangerous magical objects, sometimes made from the bones of dead animals wrapped in skins, and were considered to have the power to kill. The carving...Originally, Greenlandic tupilaks were extremely dangerous magical objects, sometimes made from the bones of dead animals wrapped in skins, and were considered to have the power to kill. The carving of small tupilak “evil spirit” figures began in East Greenland in the early 20th century, spreading to West Greenland around 1930.
References: For a discussion of tupilak figures see Birte Haagen, Tupilaks: Magical Figures from Greenland, (Virum: Tinok, 2014); see also Bodil Kaalund, The Art of Greenland: Sculpture, Crafts, Painting (Berkeley: University of California Press), pp. 67-74.
Provenance
Private Collection, British Columbia;
Acquired form the above by the present Toronto Collection.
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