David Pudlat (Kinngait - Cape Dorset) - Monumental

Updated September 18, 2026

A captivating original Inuit sculpture by David Pudlat of Kinngait (Cape Dorset), this striking 2026 carving embodies the vitality, optimism and sculptural sophistication that have made contemporary Cape Dorset Inuit art one of the world's most collected forms of Indigenous sculpture. Entitled Bear, the work transforms one of the Arctic's most enduring and iconic subjects into an unforgettable celebration of movement, personality and balance. Executed in richly variegated dark green serpentine and accompanied by its original Government of Canada certified authenticity card, this is a fully documented contemporary example that will appeal equally to seasoned Inuit art collectors, museums, galleries and buyers seeking exceptional Canadian Indigenous sculpture.<br>br&gt;Standing confidently on a single supporting leg while the opposite hind leg lifts behind in animated motion, the bear stretches skyward with remarkable energy. Massive forelegs sweep dramatically across the body, one crossing the chest while the other extends outward, creating a composition that appears to change continuously as the sculpture is viewed from different angles. Rather than depicting a static animal, Pudlat captures a fleeting moment of exuberant movement, producing a sculpture that feels simultaneously powerful, playful and deeply expressive. This dynamic interpretation of the celebrated Inuit dancing bear theme exemplifies the imaginative creativity for which Kinngait artists have become internationally renowned.<br><br>The sculpture demonstrates an accomplished understanding of sculptural mass and negative space. Broad muscular shoulders transition seamlessly into rounded hips and powerful hindquarters, while deeply undercut forearms create dramatic shadow and dimensionality rarely encountered in carvings of this scale. The simplified facial treatment directs attention toward the sculpture's extraordinary silhouette, allowing its sculptural rhythm and flowing lines to command attention from every viewing angle. Carefully polished throughout, the stone reveals beautiful natural marbling in shades of deep forest green, olive, charcoal and warm earth tones, with changing light continually revealing new mineral patterns across the surface.<br><br>Unlike production artwork, every Inuit stone sculpture is individually conceived and hand carved, making this an entirely unique work that can never be duplicated. The inclusion of its matching bilingual Canadian Certified Authenticity card further enhances desirability, documenting the artist, community, title and corresponding identification number while reinforcing the sculpture's authenticity and provenance. Documented, certified contemporary carvings from Kinngait remain among the most recognizable and internationally respected expressions of Canadian Indigenous art, with dancing bears consistently ranking among the strongest and most universally collected subjects.<br><br>Excellent overall original condition. The sculpture

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