Rare and Important Okvik Eskimo Walrus Ivory Female Figure

finely carved with a cylindrical body, bulging abdomen, and sloping shoulders, the head of classic form, with small grooved mouth, long aquiline nose and deeply inset eyes, incised decoration overall, with a series of dots on the face, the body with lineal designs; with an overall patina ranging from honey to encrusted dark brown.

Private Collection
Acquired by the present owner from the above

There is a split on the face of the piece as evidenced in the catalogue illustration; stable.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Stylistically this figure relates to four other figures identified as Okvik substyle B examples, see Wardwell, 1986, pp. 50, 52-53, nos. 31, 37, 38 and 39. Number 39 is identified as appearing to be of a pregnant woman. For related comparable see Sotheby's New York, May 2007, lots 73 and 74.