KAYAK MODEL or SCALE MODEL with its NAVIGATOR
Inuit culture, Alaska
Around 1880
Wood, hide, fabric, bones and antler
Height: 9 cm; Length: 69 cm
(past accidents and shortages)
Like real boats, this kayak model consists of a wooden hull covered with finely stitched leather and featuring a carved antler guard. It has several lifelines with floats made of carved bone beads. The stem and sternpost are protected by antler finely riveted with wooden nails.
The cockpit is occupied by its navigator: his body, made of wood and fabric, is dressed in a parka, he wears leather gloves.
Kayaks were used for hunting, fishing, and transporting goods.
These miniature creations allowed children to become familiar with the materials and tools needed for hunting.
"When the morning star rises, the young boys are taken to the sea where they must stay in the water for half an hour or more in order to gradually train them to withstand the cold."
Field notes, 1871-1872 of Alphonse Pinart in Kodiak, Alaska.
Provenance: Robert Dupérier Gallery, Paris
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
Ref.: 7437
+33681153179
ff.coridon@wanadoo.fr
www.proantic.com/galerie/coridon/
