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Female Figure

Unrecorded Okvik Artist Native American
2nd–5th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Ancient art unearthed at Okvik sites in the Arctic include figures carved from walrus ivory in the form of stylized humans. This example’s elongated head features a prominent nose and brow ridge. Little is known about their creators, but most of such figurines have been found in high-status burials with hunting paraphernalia and other ritual objects. Although some figures appear to be marked as female, their significance remains elusive.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Female Figure
  • Artist: Unrecorded Okvik Artist (Native American)
  • Date: 2nd–5th century
  • Geography: United States, Bering Strait region, Alaska
  • Culture: Okvik
  • Medium: Walrus ivory
  • Dimensions: H. 6 × W. 2 × D. 2 in. (15.2 × 5.1 × 5.1 cm)
  • Classification: Bone/Ivory-Sculpture
  • Credit Line: Collection of Charles and Valerie Diker (730)
  • Rights and Reproduction: Image © Charles and Valerie Diker Collection/Photo: Dirk Bakker
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing