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Artworks
ENNUTSIAK (1893-1967) IQALUIT (FROBISHER BAY)
Standing Mother and Child, c. 1960-62stone, 9 x 4 x 4 in (22.9 x 10.2 x 10.2 cm)
inscribed with artist’s disc number, "E7 - 603".
LOT 25
ESTIMATE: $3,500 — $5,000Further images
As mentioned, Ennutsiak seldom depicted solitary figures, instead he often focused on connection and interdependence. In this work, a mother carries her child within the protective folds of her amautiq,...As mentioned, Ennutsiak seldom depicted solitary figures, instead he often focused on connection and interdependence. In this work, a mother carries her child within the protective folds of her amautiq, reinforcing the idea that nurturance is essential to both survival and community. At the same time, the holds a twisted skin to her mouth, engaged in the labour of softening it for clothing. This small but telling detail emphasizes the dual responsibilities of care and creation for Inuit women in traditional life. Compositionally, the woman is grounded on two stocky legs, clad in detailed garments that serve as a visual foundation, anchoring her in stability and endurance, a reflection of the strength that defines her presence.
References: For other depictions of mother and children works but he artist see First Arts, 10 June 2024, Lot 1; See also Maria von Finckenstein ed., Celebrating Inuit Art 1948-1970, (Hull, QC: Canadian Museum of Civilization, 1999), p. 133. For another work with a similar theme, Grandmother with Child, see First Arts, 30 Nov. 2021, Lot 22.
Provenance
An Ottawa Collection.
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