TÊTE EN IVOIRE MARIN, PÉRIODE OKVIK, "OLD BERING SEA 1", (100 - 400 AP. J.-C), ÎLE SAINT-LAURENT, ALASKA |

Kenneth Pushkin, Santa Fe, acquis ca. 1974
Jonathan Holstein, New York
Harry Klamer, Toronto
Jeffrey R. Myers, New York, acquis ca. 1992
Collection privée américaine, acquis ca. 1996

Good condition overall. There is one small chip at the bottom of the face and scratches on the face all visible on the catalogue illustration. Wear consistent with archaic age and use within the culture.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Situées sur l'île Saint-Laurent et les deux côtes du détroit de Béring, les cultures anciennes aujourd'hui désignées sous le terme "Old Bering Sea 1" témoignent de la première manifestation importante du mode de vie esquimau. Leur statuaire, et notamment la grande tradition de la sculpture sur ivoire marin, révèle la vie sociale et politique complexes de ces communautés.   Cette tête se rattache à la plus ancienne de ces cultures - couramment appelée Okvik - qui s'est épanouie sur l'île Saint-Laurent entre 100 et 400 ap. J.-C. A la stylisation caractéristique, évoquant de manière sidérante l'œuvre d'Amadeo Modigliani, s'ajoute ici la beauté de la patine sombre orangée et de la veinure affleurante de l'ivoire, intensifiant la prégnance du visage; la bouche probablement sertie à l'origine. Une  tête de dimension et de style comparables est conservée dans les collections de la Rock Foundation, New York (inv. n° A7932).