Figure

MOA: University of British Columbia

3507/3

Carved tupilaq (tupilak). Cone-like sculpture with a human-like face overtop of a walrus-like head. Legs of human and tusks of walrus form base. Human has circular eyes, with black inlay, and deep circular nostrils. Has a wide open mouth, full of square teeth. Sets of three incised lines across cheeks, nose, and overtop eyes, imitating eyebrows. Curved depression divides the two faces. Walrus has circular eyes, with black inlay, and small nostrils drilled into surface. Incised horizontal lines between eyes, two sets of diagonal lines extending from corners of eyes. Semi-circular line between nostrils and eyes, outlining snout. Small depression between nostrils. Entire back surface of sculpture is flat. Interior is hollow.


  • Type of Item figure
  • Culture Inuit
  • Material whale tooth
  • Measurements height 11.4 cm, width 4.0 cm, depth 4.9 cm (overall)

  • Previous Owner Gordon Jeffrey McNeill
  • Received from Gordon Jeffrey McNeill

  • Made in Greenland

  • Ownership Date before June 25, 2021
  • Acquisition Date on June 25, 2021

  • Item Classes carvings & sculpture
  • Condition good
  • Accession Number 3507/0003