Inuit Seal Fur Mukluks, Bear & Caribou Appliques (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 117)

$289.13

Native American, Northwestern United States, Alaska, Inuit-Yupik, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A pair of handmade mukluks constructed from seal fur, caribou hide, leather, and felt. The exterior features supple seal skin with thick white fur ruffs at the cuffs, leather straps, and traditional crimped outer soles; historically, Arctic artisans achieved this crimped edge by chewing the dampened seal skin rather than using metal tools. The interiors are lined in dark felt with red felt drawstring closures at the top. Decorative fur appliques depict a polar bears and caribou. Mukluks are traditional winter boots of Arctic Indigenous communities, designed for extreme cold, and the term derives from the Yupik word maklak, referring to the bearded seal. This example reflects both enduring Indigenous techniques and adaptations in materials introduced through outside contact during the 20th century. Size: 12″ L x 4.5″ W x 19″ H (30.5 cm x 11.4 cm x 48.3 cm)

Provenance: Private Manchester, Missouri, USA collection, acquired prior to 2000

Condition: Evidence of prior insect activity, including the presence of insect remains and larval casings. Professional conservation treatment is strongly recommended, including controlled freezing and specialized cleaning. Age-related wear, with hair loss, thinning, and areas of fur separation are present throughout, along with, fading, and stiffness to portions of the hide and leather elements.