The Alaska State Museum September 2024 Artifact of the Month is Walrus Man (II-F-74), a curious blend of human and walrus. Its form suggests a humanoid figure, yet its defining feature—the pair of walrus tusks protruding from its mouth—hints at something otherworldly. Is it a guardian spirit? A mythical creature? We can only speculate.
The figure is crafted from woolly mammoth ivory, with eyes made from baleen (a material that comes from whale mouths). These fused elements tie the carving to the rich natural world of the western coast of Alaska and the Bering Sea.
The Walrus Man was found on Unalga Island, part of the Fox Islands, in the Aleutian chain. The carving’s cultural identity points to the Unangan people indigenous to the region. Their intricate carvings and spiritual beliefs intertwine with the land, sea, and creatures that sustain their way of life.
Nick E. Bolshanin recognized the carving’s significance and generously donated it to the museum. Now this enigmatic figure can continue to intrigue and inspire generations.
As we contemplate this mysterious figure, let us honor the Unangan legacy—their resilience, artistry, and connection to the natural world. Visit the Unangan display case at the Alaska State Museum to see the Walrus Man and learn more about the Unangan people.
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