Large Inuit Steatite Soapstone Man with Hiding Seal Sculpture Peter Juanista

Inuit Steatite Soapstone Man Sculpture
Size 15" H
Crouching Inuit Man Looking for a Sea Otter with Inuit Number 7555TT Signed Peter Juanista (sic)
Excellent Condition
Inuit soapstone carvings, made from steatite, are a cornerstone of Inuit art, particularly from regions like Kinngait (Cape Dorset), Inukjuak, and Sanikiluaq in Nunavut and Nunavik. Steatite is a soft, talc-rich stone, often grey, blue-grey, or white, that is easy to carve and polish to a glossy finish. These sculptures gained prominence in the mid-20th century through initiatives like James Houston’s “Eskimo Project,” which promoted carvings for commercial markets. Common themes include human figures (e.g., hunters, shamans, or mothers), animals, and cultural motifs reflecting Inuit life and spirituality.