#27 • 85" Narwhal Tusk

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

High bid $55,000.00

Status: Sold

Category: Natural History

A narwhal (Monodon monoceros) tusk displaying a beautifully developed helical spiral extending continuously from the broad base to the intact pointed tip. The surface exhibits an appealing cream-colored patina accented by deeply recessed grooves ranging from warm honey and golden brown to rich caramel tones, highlighting the dramatic torsional growth pattern that has made the narwhal one of the most recognizable and celebrated marine mammals in the world. Measuring approximately 85 inches in length by 2.25 inches in diameter at the base and weighing approximately 10.5 pounds, the tusk represents a mature male specimen of impressive scale and quality. For centuries, narwhal tusks occupied a legendary place in the Western imagination, prized as the mythical "horns" of the unicorn and believed to possess extraordinary medicinal and protective powers. Royal courts throughout Renaissance Europe competed to acquire them, with one celebrated tusk presented to Queen Elizabeth I reputedly valued at the equivalent cost of an entire castle. Their rarity, remarkable natural form, and enduring association with Arctic exploration continue to make authentic examples among the most sought-after objects in the field of natural history collecting. Of particular importance, this specimen is accompanied by compelling documented pre-Act provenance. A copy of the original Oceanic Trading Company invoice, dated August 18, 1967, records the sale of a "7 Ft. Narwhal Tusk" to Bruce Beasley in Oakland, California. The retained image provides clear contemporaneous documentation establishing the specimen's presence in the United States decades prior to the enactment of modern federal protections governing narwhals. Such documented pre-Act provenance is exceptionally uncommon and significantly enhances both the historical importance and legal confidence associated with the specimen. Because of its documented pre-Act status, this specimen is legally transactable within the United States. In accordance with applicable wildlife regulations, this lot will not be exported or shipped internationally. An outstanding Arctic natural history specimen distinguished not only by its impressive size, excellent preservation, and attractive coloration, but also by its rare and well-documented provenance, placing it among the finest and most desirable examples available to collectors, museums, and institutions. Provenance: Consigned directly by the Bruce Beasley Foundation, established by internationally acclaimed American sculptor Bruce Beasley (b. 1939), whose works are represented in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and numerous other institutions worldwide. The Foundation is dedicated to advancing the appreciation and study of sculpture and three-dimensional art. 100% of the net proceeds from the sale of this lot will be donated to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, supporting its mission to preserve, celebrate, and share the diverse cultures, traditions, languages, and artistic heritage of Alaska Native peoples through education, cultural programming, and community engagement. Note Regarding Shipping Services: This item is exceptionally large and/or heavy, and may require custom boxing or crating depending on the intended destination and available carrier services. For more information prior to bidding, please email us at Shipping@AlaskaPremierAuctions.com or call/text us at 907.570.7050.