John Keknek (Inuk, Gjoa Haven, Nunavut) - Monument

Updated September 18, 2026

Powerful, charismatic and instantly recognizable, this monumental 2015 Polar Bear by acclaimed Gjoa Haven Inuit sculptor John Keknek stands as an exceptional example of contemporary Canadian Inuit sculpture, combining commanding scale, bold sculptural presence and outstanding artistic personality. Standing an impressive 10 1/2 inches tall, the work embodies the enduring strength, intelligence and spiritual symbolism of Nanuk - the polar bear - one of the most revered and iconic subjects in Inuit art. Monumental examples of this quality and scale by documented Gjoa Haven artists are consistently sought after by serious collectors of Inuit, Indigenous Canadian and Arctic sculpture, particularly when accompanied by original Government of Canada certification.<br><br>Executed in beautifully figured pale Arctic stone, the sculpture immediately captivates through its remarkable presence. The bear stands upright in a proud, almost ceremonial pose, its broad shoulders, massive forearms and deeply carved paws conveying tremendous physical power while maintaining a wonderfully expressive, almost human-like character. The dramatic open mouth creates a vivid sense of animation, as though the bear has been captured in mid-roar or vocal communication, transforming a static carving into a living Arctic presence. The elongated muzzle, carefully inset eyes and boldly defined nose further enhance the sculpture's individuality, giving it an unmistakable personality that distinguishes it from more conventional Inuit bear carvings.<br><br>Perhaps most impressive is Keknek's masterful treatment of surface texture. Thousands of finely incised directional cuts simulate the dense coat of the polar bear, creating extraordinary visual movement as light travels across the sculpture. The meticulously carved fur follows the anatomical flow of the animal, accentuating the muscular shoulders, rounded torso, massive forearms and powerful legs while demonstrating the artist's exceptional control of both tool and material. Smoothly finished facial planes contrast beautifully against the richly textured body, creating depth, realism and remarkable tactile appeal from every angle. The sculpture possesses exceptional three-dimensionality, rewarding examination from all sides and revealing new sculptural relationships with every viewpoint.<br><br>The supplied photographs beautifully document the sculpture's quality. The frontal view showcases the commanding stance, expressive open mouth and deeply carved paws that immediately establish its powerful presence. The three-quarter views reveal the extraordinary volume of the forearms and the sophisticated modeling of the shoulders, while simultaneously highlighting the remarkable consistency of the engraved fur texture. Side profiles emphasize the dramatic projection of the muzzle and open jaw, reinforcing the sculpture's sense of vitality and movement. Rear views demonstrate that equal artistic attention was devoted to every surface, with

More lots in this auction

• Toussaint Riendeau - Seated Figure - Limited Editi
• Exceptional Inuit Stone Carving - “Hunter” by John
• Davidee Uppik (Sanikiluaq) Masterwork "Polar Bear"
• Joan Miró "Derrière Le Miroir No. 231" - Original
• Mary Tutsuitok - Arviat Inuit Stone Carving - Fami
• Bill Kort “The Mushroom Crown” (2000) Original Abs
• Lucassie Simonie (Dorset, Nunavut) Monumental Inuk
• Richard Bernstein's "True Colours" Limited Edition

See all lots in October Art & Collectibles- 2-DAY Auction →