6” Walking Bear by Louie Uttaq *Gentle Spirit*

Inuit art: Walking Bear 
Inuit Artist: Louie Uttaq
Size: 6" long, 3” high, 2.5” wide
Community: Gjoa Haven, NU 21
Stone: Serpentinite
id: c-118

There are many carving styles.

Some are meticulous in their detail.

Some are abstract.

Then there is the simple and straightforward style.

Louie Uttaq  has carved this uncomplicated walking bear with respect.

The proportions of the sculpture are perfect. This is a well muscled animal presented in a gentle and subtle manner.

I want to point out our bear's ears.  

Instead of realistic "prick" ears, Louie has placed a simple round indentation for the ear, as if the external ear has gone missing.

Also, notice the bear's mouth.  There is a bridge of stone on either side of the open mouth with represents the meeting of the upper and lower lower canine teeth. 

This style of depicting fangs is most often seen in Gjoa Haven carvings.  It is a subtle but very effective detail. 

Uttaq's gentle bear is sure to win a place in your heart.

See our notes on The Gjoa Haven Collection.

PROUDLY CANADIAN SINCE 2007

We promise to send you only good things