The Book Collector

The Book Collector

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An Introduction to the Native Art of Alaska

R250.00

For Alaska’s indigenous people — who lived off the sea and land — art was not originally decorative but rather a symbol of spiritual and metaphysical activity, a reference to living in harmony with nature.

It was not until the 17th century – when Europeans first made contact with the people of coastal Alaska — that these non-utilitarian art objects were traded in exchange for tools, cloth, food and more. These objects became useful items for trade, such as:

  • harpoon pikes carved from ivory tusks
  • clothing woven from grass
  • outerwear sewn from the membranes in the innards of seals
  • animal skins used for warm overcoats

Items increased in value as they became more ornate and decorative, often ending up as souvenirs for whalers and explorers.

Price: R250.00

Edition: First edition

Published: 1972

Publishers: The Anchorage Historical and Fine Arts Museum

Condition: 84 page stapled paperback in fair condition, with shelf wear around the edges and scuff marks on the covers. Internally clean and tightly bound.

1 in stock

Description

For Alaska’s indigenous people — who lived off the sea and land — art was not originally decorative but rather a symbol of spiritual and metaphysical activity, a reference to living in harmony with nature.

It was not until the 17th century – when Europeans first made contact with the people of coastal Alaska — that these non-utilitarian art objects were traded in exchange for tools, cloth, food and more. These objects became useful items for trade, such as:

  • harpoon pikes carved from ivory tusks
  • clothing woven from grass
  • outerwear sewn from the membranes in the innards of seals
  • animal skins used for warm overcoats

Items increased in value as they became more ornate and decorative, often ending up as souvenirs for whalers and explorers.

Price: R250.00

Edition: First edition

Published: 1972

Publishers: The Anchorage Historical and Fine Arts Museum

Condition: 84 page stapled paperback in fair condition, with shelf wear around the edges and scuff marks on the covers. Internally clean and tightly bound.

Additional information

Weight 200 g