#49 • Pair of Early Mineralized Walrus Tusk Hare Shakers, Possibly Happy Jack

Part of June 2026 Premier Auction (live auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $900.00

Status: Sold

Category: Ethnographic Objects

A charming pair of carved mineralized walrus tusk hare-form salt and pepper shakers, each depicting an Alaska hare in an alert upright "periscope" pose with forepaws raised and hind feet tucked beneath the body. Smoothly polished and carved in near-matching form, the figures display attractive caramel and cream tones inherent to the ancient ivory and are accented with scrimshaw details defining the eyes, whiskers, mouth, paws, and elongated ears folded against the back. Small perforations to the tops of the heads identify their functional use, while the undersides are hollowed and fitted with concealed access plugs. Beyond their practical purpose, the sculptures possess the whimsical character and expressive simplicity associated with early Bering Strait ivory carving produced for the curio trade. Their rounded contours, animated stance, and playful personalities are particularly evocative of the work of Iñupiaq master Angokwazhuk, better known as "Happy Jack" (1870?-1918), whose documented carvings frequently incorporated hares and rabbits among his favorite subjects. In fact, rabbits appear repeatedly throughout his known oeuvre, from umbrella handles to small figural carvings, and the affection with which these creatures are rendered—standing upright almost as if engaged in conversation—reflects the same lighthearted spirit and love of animal forms for which he became celebrated. Attribution is based upon stylistic consistency and should be regarded as tentative. Late 19th or early 20th century. Each measures approximately 1" x 1.5" x 2.5" tall. Provenance: From the collection of Dr. Henry B. Collins and descendants. Collins (1899-1987) served as Senior Archaeologist and Head Curator of Ethnology at the Smithsonian Institution and spent decades conducting research throughout Alaska and the Bering Strait region.