Inuit Masterworks: Rare Arctic Stone Carvings

On November 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM CST, Block Auction House will present a live auction showcasing the skill, imagination, and cultural expression of Inuit sculptors from across the Arctic. Known for transforming stone into powerful representations of wildlife, spirit figures, and scenes of daily life, Inuit artists draw on deep traditions passed through generations. The collection reflects a wide range of regional styles and the unique visions of carvers who continue to share Inuit stories and perspectives through their work.
This boutique auction brings together a striking selection of Inuit stone sculpture by artists whose work resonates in today’s market and in the broader story of Arctic art. Featured are two masterfully carved snowy owls and a spiritual figure by Manasie Akpaliapik, an artist whose transformation-themed works are among the most coveted in Inuit art. A powerful shamanic sculpture by Abraham Anghik Ruben, recognized internationally for blending Inuit and mythological themes, adds further strength to the offering.
Other highlights include Toonoo Sharky’s Bird Spirit and signature wildlife forms, Cape Dorset classics like Kellypalik Qimirpik’s Dancing Rabbit and Isaaci Petaulassie’s Diving Bear, and major works by Bart Hanna and Jomie Aipeelee. Together, they represent the imagination, tradition, and regional diversity that define contemporary Inuit carving.

Below are five standout works that anchor this remarkable sale and exemplify the depth and artistry of the collection:

Abraham Anghik Ruben – Shaman (Carved Stone Sculpture) (Lot 46)
Abraham Anghik Ruben (Inuvialuk, b. 1951) is internationally celebrated for exploring themes of Inuit spirituality, shamanic transformation, and Norse-Inuit cultural connections. His monumental Shaman sculpture is a commanding example.
Carved from mottled tan-green stone, the crouching figure holds a drum and drumstick, framed by a hood with a striking removable bird-form mask. Ruben’s ability to merge narrative detail with powerful physicality is fully present here—each detachable element emphasizing the ritualistic and transformative nature of shamanic practice.

Estimate: $6,000–$14,000

Kananginak Pootoogook – Muskox with Igloo Tag (Lot 49)
One of the most respected artists of Cape Dorset, Kananginak Pootoogook (1935–2010) is renowned for his meticulous depictions of Arctic wildlife. This large green serpentine muskox sculpture showcases deeply incised fur striations, a compact stance, and a polished finish that reveals beautiful tonal depth.
Signed on the underside and retaining its original Igloo Tag, the work remains a desirable collector’s piece despite a break to one front foot. It captures the muskox with quiet strength and characteristic attention to anatomical detail.

Estimate: $3,000–$8,000

Large Signed Inuit Marble Polar Bear (Unidentified Artist) (Lot 12)
Carved from solid white marble with subtle grey veining, this commanding polar bear sculpture is defined by its smooth contours and elegant simplicity. At 23 inches long and weighing 80 lbs, the piece has significant presence while maintaining the restraint often seen in Inuit wildlife carving.
Though the artist is unidentified, the incised signature and refined workmanship make this a standout for collectors seeking large-format sculpture with timeless visual appeal.

Estimate: $2,500–$7,500

Toonoo Sharky – Bird Spirit (Serpentine Sculpture, 2012) (Lot 40)
Toonoo Sharky (b. 1970), one of the most dynamic contemporary Inuit sculptors, is known for blending human, animal, and spiritual realms into bold, expressive forms. His Bird Spirit is carved from richly mottled green serpentine with detailed wings, inlaid eyes, and three expressive faces.
Signed and dated, the sculpture captures themes of transformation central to Sharky’s work and to Inuit cosmology more broadly. Its dramatic silhouette and spiritual symbolism make it a standout piece in the sale.

Estimate: $2,500–$8,000

Jomie Aipeelee – Whale on Base (Serpentine Sculpture, 2006) (Lot 42)
This large serpentine whale by Jomie Aipeelee (1963–2020) arcs gracefully above its matching base, connected by a wooden peg. Known for his depictions of marine mammals and muskox, Aipeelee brings fluid motion and anatomical intuition to this work.
The stone’s deep greens and subtle yellow veining enhance the sculpture’s sense of movement, while the polished surface highlights the whale’s sweeping, elegant form. Signed on the underside, the work reflects the artist’s renowned lineage and craftsmanship.

Estimate: $1,300–$4,000

With 68 lots in total, Inuit Masterworks: Rare Arctic Stone Carvings offers an extraordinary opportunity to acquire museum-quality works that celebrate Inuit heritage, storytelling, and artistic innovation.

Explore the full catalog and register to bid on Bidsquare.com.