Inuit Soapstone Carving - Signed Kanayook c1980

Updated August 8, 2026

Artist: Kanayook Title: Seal on Ice Floe Medium: Hand-carved stone (serpentine/soapstone) Date: Circa 1980 Dimensions: Approximately 3.5"H × 8.5"L A finely carved Inuit stone sculpture depicting a seal poised alertly upon an ice floe. Executed in dark green to black serpentine with natural veining, the sculpture displays the elegant, flowing lines and simplified forms characteristic of classic Canadian Inuit sculpture. The seal's sleek body and subtly modeled features convey both movement and the quiet dignity of Arctic wildlife, while the contrasting lighter stone base effectively represents the surrounding ice. The underside bears the carved signature "Kanayook" and a circa 1980 date, indicating production during the period when Inuit stone carving enjoyed increasing international recognition. Artist Biography Kanayook was among a generation of Inuit sculptors working in the Canadian Arctic during the mid-to-late twentieth century, producing carvings that celebrated traditional northern life and its wildlife. Artists bearing the Kanayook name are represented in Canadian public collections, and works depicting seals, bears, and human figures reflect the longstanding Inuit carving tradition that emerged as an important artistic and economic activity after the 1950s. Inuit sculptures by artists named Kanayook are found in museum collections including the Art Gallery of Ontario and other Canadian institutions.

Register & bid on this lot at Bidspirit →

More lots in this auction

• Continental Rococo Revival Style Mantel Clock
• Joanassie Oomayoualook Soapstone Carving
• Handwoven Lidded African Sisal Basket
• Vintage Amberina Art Glass Pitcher
• Weimar Porcelain Cobalt & Gilt Cabinet Plate
• Morton-Parker "Marlboro Plate" Champagne Bucket
• Bring Help!
• Victorian Fish Platter w Hand-Painted Brown Trout

See all lots in Quality Estate Auction - MONDAY Aug. 17th , Erin On. →