Mother with child and fish - basalt carving - Eskimo Art - Mathew Aqigaaq, ᒪᑐ ᐊᑭᒐ - Inuit - Canada

This substantial Inuit sculpture, expertly rendered in basalt, is the work of the esteemed artist Mathew Aqigaaq (1940-2010). Weighing in excess of 10 kg, this piece offers a compelling example of the sculptural prowess and expressive depth characteristic of Aqigaaq's body of work.

Mathew Aqigaaq, ᒪᑐ ᐊᑭᒐ, whose life began near the Kazan River in Nunavut, left an indelible mark upon the world of Inuit art. The region around Baker Lake, his home, is recognized for its significant deposits of basalt, a material known for its remarkable hardness and resilience. Despite the inherent challenges presented by both his environment and this demanding medium, Aqigaaq possessed a profound ability to transform even the most unyielding stone into works of captivating beauty. His capacity to imbue such a challenging material with vitality speaks eloquently of his technical mastery and his steadfast commitment to his artistic vision.

Throughout his distinguished career, Mathew Aqigaaq earned widespread acclaim for his intricately detailed sculptures that eloquently capture the spirit of Inuit life and culture. His creations transcend mere physical representation, embodying the enduring spirit and resilience of the Inuit people. Whether depicting human figures engaged in traditional pursuits or rendering the majestic form of the muskox, Aqigaaq's sculptures resonated deeply, reaching audiences far beyond the confines of his remote community.

Today, Mathew Aqigaaq's sculptures are held in prominent collections and galleries across the globe, solidifying his position as a leading figure in contemporary Inuit art. His legacy extends beyond his artistic skill; through his work, he made a vital contribution to the preservation and celebration of Inuit cultural heritage.

In terms of artistic style, Mathew Aqigaaq's sculptures are marked by a discernible dedication to detail and a notable talent for conveying emotion and movement. His human subjects often possess a palpable sense of warmth and vitality, brought to life through subtle nuances in expression and posture. This particular work, thoughtfully titled "Woman with child and fish," serves as a powerful illustration of these qualities, offering the viewer a window into the rich traditions and daily rhythms of Inuit life, with particular emphasis on the profound significance of family bonds and the vital role of sustenance. Aqigaaq's art transcends simple depiction, standing as a testament to the indomitable spirit of his people and safeguarding their narratives and legacy for generations to come. This sculpture is, therefore, not merely an object of art, but a tangible piece of living cultural history.


Provenance:
Acquired 1996 in Canada, thereafter kept in a private collection.


About the seller:
As a private seller, I primarily present curated selections from an inherited collection through Catawiki. With a profound respect for the provenance of each item, I endeavor to ensure their transition to discerning new custodians. To safeguard these pieces during transit, I employ robust packaging materials, some of which are procured specifically for this purpose. Consequently, the shipping fees encompass the DHL charges, along with a modest provision for the specialized packaging utilized. While this provision does not fully cover the cost of the materials, I consider robust packaging essential to ensuring your acquisition arrives safely. Should you require any further information regarding the objects or the shipping process, please do not hesitate to contact me.

It is my sincere hope that the items offered will bring you as much pleasure as they afforded their previous owner. This would be a most gratifying outcome.