Harpoon counterweight

Unknown

300–500 CE · Walrus ivory · The American Wing

Technologically sophisticated, the harpoon was an essential tool for hunting on the Bering Sea. Carvers used walrus ivory to make components of the long, spear-like instrument, including its counterweights, or stabilizers, sometimes referred to as "winged objects" due to their shape. The elegant sculptural form of this example is complemented by the engraved curvilinear designs. The top and outer edges may be inscribed with animal features.

Artist

Unknown

Date

300–500 CE

Medium

Walrus ivory

Culture

Old Bering Sea III, Native American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

The Charles and Valerie Diker Collection of Native American Art, Gift of Charles and Valerie Diker, 2019