Eskimo Oosik with Carved Ivory End Caps
Early 20th Century
Walrus baculum, walrus ivory, baleen, and wood
Height on stand: 6.5 in. | Length: 22.5 in.
Provenance: The Estate of Errol Rudman, Rudman Capital
This striking object is a traditional Eskimo oosik, crafted from the baculum (penis bone) of a walrus. It features finely carved walrus ivory end caps—one formed as the heads of two growling polar bears, the other as a walrus face—each joined to the polished shaft with dark baleen spacers. The oosik rests on a custom wooden stand inlaid with a charming ivory scene of an Inuit musher and his dog sled team.
Among Indigenous Arctic peoples, oosiks hold symbolic and spiritual value, often used as ceremonial or totemic objects. This example reflects both traditional cultural significance and a high level of craftsmanship, combining natural materials with storytelling and artistry. The work’s rich patina attests to its age and careful preservation.
