#34 • Rie Munoz "Walrus Drum - Story Teller" Watercolor Painting

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

High bid $800.00

Status: Sold

Category: Art

An original watercolor painting entitled "Walrus Drum - Story Teller" by Alaska artist Rie Munoz (1921-2015), signed on the central right-hand side and dated c.1970. The work is noted as being Rie's original version of her iconic work "Eskimo Story Teller," and is unique with no prints produced. Rie is a widely collected painter, known for her portrayal of daily life in Alaskan towns and small villages. The visually impactful work depicts a storytelling gathering, with five children surrounding an elder as he wraps sinew around a walrus drum. A walrus drum is a traditional musical instrument, often associated with Alaska Native cultures like the Inupiat and Yupik, made from a walrus's stomach or bladder stretched over a frame. These drums are used in ceremonial dances and storytelling, with the walrus hide providing a resonant surface. Behind the children, various engravings or sketches are visible on the wall, each depicting images of Arctic life. Colors are bright yellows and blues, complemented by the rich blue mat and dark brown frame. Framed under glass, the painting measures approximately 19.5" x 22.75" overall, with a sight view of 11.5" x 15".