Native American, Pacific Northwest Coast, United States or Canada, Tlingit or Haida people, ca. late 19th to mid 20th century CE. This is a fine walrus ivory amulet carved with characteristically stylized totemic figures in low relief. The central crouching figure is anthropomorphic staring forward with a sad or nervous expression, the two ravens flanking him, their beaks resting atop his head, possibly devouring the person. A hole is drilled through the beak of the left bird for suspension on a cord but does not appear to be original. This amulet was likely for folding into the robes of a shaman or doctor for protection and power during healing rituals. Size: 3" L x 1.375" W (7.6 cm x 3.5 cm)

This is an ESA antique exempt piece of ivory and cannot be sold internationally or to anyone residing in the states of California, Hawaii, Illinois, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington. We guarantee that the piece was made prior to 1972.

Provenance: private Brevard, North Carolina, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#171036

Suspension hole through raven beak was probably a later addition, otherwise intact and very good.