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Artworks
JOHN KAVIK (1897-1993) KANGIQLINIQ (RANKIN INLET)
Basking Seal, c. early 1960sstone, 3.25 x 8.5 x 4.25 in (8.3 x 21.6 x 10.8 cm)
unsigned.LOT 67
ESTIMATE: $2,000 — $3,000Further images
John Kavik is best known for his myriad portrayals of the human figure, but he did make the occasional foray into the animal kingdom, with an apparent fondness for muskoxen....John Kavik is best known for his myriad portrayals of the human figure, but he did make the occasional foray into the animal kingdom, with an apparent fondness for muskoxen. While there may be more examples extant, we know of fewer than five depictions of seals by Kavik (see First Arts, July 2020, Lot 83, for an interesting and quite large specimen). The present example is a very early one, perhaps the archetype. Swimming Seal is a particularly fine work, delicately carved and more finished than later works by Kavik. With its streamlined body, tucked-in front flippers, and almost bird-like head, the sculpture is a truly appealing animal portrait.
References: Publications illustrating multiple examples of fine works by John Kavik include George Swinton, Sculpture of the Inuit, (Toronto: McClelland & Stewart, 1972/92); Norman Zepp, Pure Vision: The Keewatin Spirit, (Regina: Norman Mackenzie Art Gallery, 1986); and Bernadette Driscoll, Rankin Inlet / Kangirlliniq, (Winnipeg: Winnipeg Art Gallery, 1981).Provenance
An Ottawa Collection.
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