Vintage Hand Carved Inuit Folk Art Soapstone Sculpture of Sedna, Stamped

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Description

Vintage Hand Carved Inuit Soapstone Sculpture Depicting the Legend of Sedna

This finely crafted Inuit soapstone sculpture presents a striking … Read more Vintage Hand Carved Inuit Soapstone Sculpture Depicting the Legend of Sedna

This finely crafted Inuit soapstone sculpture presents a striking interpretation of the traditional tale of Sedna, the sea goddess central to Inuit mythology. The piece features a particular composition, with Sedna depicted in her hybrid form as a mermaid, positioned atop a base adorned with symbolic animal figures, a dolphin and a seal, each representing key elements of Inuit cosmology and the natural world.

Detailed Description of the Tale of Sedna:

Sedna, also known as Nuliajuk or Taluliyuk in different Inuit traditions, is a powerful and complex figure in Inuit oral history. The most widely recounted version of her myth tells of a young woman who is cast into the ocean by her father after a series of tragic events. In some variations, Sedna refuses to marry, angering her family, while in others, she is betrayed by her father during a perilous sea journey.

As the story goes, Sedna clings to the side of her father’s kayak, but he, fearing for his own survival, cuts off her fingers. As she sinks into the depths, her severed fingers transform into the first marine mammals—seals, walruses, and whales—establishing her as the mother and guardian of all sea creatures. Sedna then assumes her role as a vengeful yet nurturing deity, controlling the bounty of the ocean. Inuit shamans must journey spiritually to appease her when food is scarce, combing her tangled hair (often depicted as being fouled by human misdeeds) to calm her anger and ensure the survival of their people.

Artistic Interpretation:

This sculpture captures Sedna’s dual nature, both benevolent and fearsome, through intricate carving techniques characteristic of Inuit folk art. The inclusion of the dolphin and seal allude to her dominion over marine life and her connection to the Arctic environment.

Provenance & Condition:

The sculpture bears the original carver’s identification number and retains its Canadian cultural heritage tag, attesting to its authenticity. The piece exhibits age appropriate wear, including subtle surface patina consistent with its vintage status. A small chip to the back of the fin. Refer to the photos for details.

Dimensions:

Height: 10.5 inches (26.7 cm)

Width: 11 inches (27.9 cm)

Depth: 2.75 inches (7 cm) See less