#12 • Thomas M. Barr Whalebone & Walrus Ivory Ice-Fishing Figure, Shishmaref

Part of October 2026 Curiosities Auction (timed auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $15.00

Status: Available

Bidding closes Oct 25, 2026 4:03 PM AKDT

Category: Ethnographic Objects

An ice-fishing figure by Thomas M. Barr of Shishmaref, Alaska, signed at the base. The elongated whalebone body is carved as a hooded parka and mukluks, with a pale walrus ivory face framed by a finely ridged hood. One arm raises the fishing line above a suspended ivory fish, whose small incised scales reward close inspection. Baleen forms the rod and dark circular accents along the parka and fish eyes, contrasting with the warm, porous bone and polished ivory. Measures approximately 3.25" x 1.5" x 8.5" tall.