Vintage Inuit Soapstone Carving – Reclining Woman & Seal – Igloo Tag
---
"More Descriptive Title"
Authentic Vintage Canadian Inuit Soapstone Sculpture – Woman & Seal – Signed Eskimo Art
---
DESCRIPTION:
This is a striking and serene vintage Inuit soapstone carving depicting a reclining woman alongside a seal, an animal deeply significant in Inuit culture. Meticulously hand-carved from mottled dark grey soapstone, this sculpture includes the official "Canada Eskimo Art" igloo tag and bears a serial number, authenticating it as an original Inuit artwork supported by the Canadian government’s cultural heritage initiative.
---
FEATURES:
Inuit soapstone sculpture featuring reclining woman and seal
Genuine dark grey/black Canadian soapstone with natural marbling
Approx. 5.25 inches in length
Original “Canada Eskimo Art” igloo tag (K192–, C11– series)
Protective felt pads on base
Possible carved artist signature on bottom
Smooth finish with expressive facial and body detailing
---
CONDITION:
Excellent vintage condition with minor surface scuffs and wear appropriate to age. No cracks or repairs. Felt pads remain intact. Tag is legible and secure.
---
HISTORICAL CONTEXT:
This piece bears the official “Eskimo Art” igloo tag, a system established by the Canadian government in 1958 to authenticate artwork created by Inuit artists. These works often depict scenes from everyday Arctic life or culturally significant relationships between humans and animals like the seal, which symbolizes survival, sustenance, and connection to the natural world.
---
COMPARABLE LISTINGS:
Similar vintage Inuit soapstone carvings (under 6”) featuring seals or reclining figures with tags range from $250–$2,500 on eBay and Inuit art marketplaces.
Example: Vintage Inuit Soapstone Carving Reclining Woman & Child – Igloo Tag – SOLD $385
Another with similar size and style listed at $525 on 1stDibs
---
PRICE:
$285.00 + shipping
---
NOTE:
Please note that all information provided in this listing is based on my personal research and assessment, as well as available third-party resources. While I strive for accuracy, I am not a certified expert in this item's category. I accept returns only if the item is not as described in the listing. Buyers are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence and consult with qualified experts to verify the item's authenticity and value before making a purchase. This item is sold as-is, and all sales are final unless the item is proven to be significantly not as described.
---
KEYWORDS:
Inuit sculpture, Eskimo art, vintage soapstone carving, Canadian Indigenous art, seal carving, Arctic folk art, igloo tag, woman and seal statue, signed Inuit carving, First Nations art, native Canadian sculpture, K192 C11, collectible Inuit art, handmade soapstone carving