Vintage Eskimo Child Skin Masks
The frigid climate in the state of Alaska provides few resources
that can be used for artistic expression. Instead, the indigenous
peoples of the area have used their ingenuity to create fascinating
works of art from materials they have at hand. These caribou skin
masks are an excellent example of Eskimo creativity. The artist
begins by carving a wooden face model and then stretches wet skin
over the form. The skin is tacked down to provide greater detail
and definition. Once dried the mask will hold its form almost
indefinitely. Strong coffee was used to dye the skin so that it
more closely approximated the complexion of Alaskan natives. The
mask was decorated with fox fur for the hood and rabbit fur for
the eyelashes. The ruff, eyebrows and eyelashes are sewn on. We
believe these were created in the 1960's or 1970's.
Alaskan Child Skin Mask No. 1. 8.5" wide x 9"
high. . (Stock number 003SkinMask1) $150.00
Alaskan Child Skin Mask No. 2. Approximately 7"
wide x 9" high. (Stock number 003SkinMask2) $150.00
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