Scale Model Of A Kayak With Its Paddle - Inuit Culture, Alaska - Circa 1880

SCALE MODEL of a KAYAK with its PADDLEER
Inuit Culture, Alaska
Circa 1880
Wood, hide, fabric, bone, and cork
H.: 9; L. : 69 cm
(historical damage and missing parts)

Like actual boats, this kayak model consists of a wooden hull structure covered with finely sewn skin and featuring a protective bow made of carved cork bark. It features several lifelines fitted with floats made of carved bone beads. The bow and stern are fitted with ash wood protection finely riveted with wooden nails.
The coaming is occupied by the kayaker: his body, made of wood and fabric, is clad in a parka, and he wears leather gloves.

Kayaks were used for hunting, fishing, and transporting goods alike.
These miniature models allowed children to become familiar with the materials and tools needed for hunting.

“When the morning star rises, the young boys are taken to the sea, where they must remain in the water for half an hour or more in order to gradually accustom them to [enduring] the cold.” ”
Field notes, 1871–1872, by Alphonse Pinart in Kodiak, Alaska.

Source: Galerie Robert Dupérier, Paris

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref.: 7437