#74 • Iñupiaq Seal Hide Fishing Float

Part of September 2024 Premier Auction (live auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $1,750.00

Status: Sold

Category: Ethnographic Objects

A museum-worthy mid-20th century "avataqpuk," or fishing float, crafted from the entire body of a spotted seal, after its head has been removed, paws remain intact with most claws. The shoulder end has been plugged and has a wooden handle tied with sinew and twine; tail end has a hollowed out walrus tusk inflation plug and a thick rope. Seal hides are by nature waterproof, and can be inflated by the hunter, placed upon the hull of his kayak, and attached by a line to the toggle head of his harpoon. When his harpoon is fired upon his prey, the seal float would drag behind it to prevent the escape of the wounded animal. Measures approximately 41" x 16.5" x 17.5" inflated.