#27 • Alaskan Native Dried Seal Gut Parka

Part of June 2025 Premier Auction (live auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $950.00

Status: Sold

Category: Apparel

Extraordinary Alaskan Native semi-transparent dried seal gut parka, early 20th c., traditionally sewn and bound with sinew (tendon, ligament) or sometimes sea grass. Pieces were crafted by scraping flesh from guts and then rinsing for hours. They would then be inflated like a balloon and hung to dry, after which they would be split open and sewn back together, all with precise care. Finished parkas are known to be highly waterproof, lightweight, and packable. These garments date back to the 1800s; while this piece's exact date is unverified, it is old and delicate, has creasing, and we have taken care not to fully unfold it and cause damage. Rehydration to reshape may be possible by experts in restoration, as traditionally these garments were dipped in seawater to make them more flexible for wear. As pictured, the parka measures approximately 22" x 36" tall. Below, you will find the term in multiple Alaskan Indigenous Peoples' languages for gut parkas: "Chigdax" - Unangax term for gut parka  "Imarnin" - Yup’ik term for gut parka  "Kapitaq" - Inupiaq term for rain parka  "Kamleika" - Chukchi term for gut parka Note Regarding Shipping Services: This item is exceptionally large and cannot be folded without risk of damage. It may require custom boxing or crating depending on the intended destination and available carrier services. International shipping is likely unavailable. For more information prior to bidding, please email us at Shipping@AlaskaPremierAuctions.com or call/text us at 907.570.7050.