This regal goose effigy was carved using fossil material by James Aningayou, an Inuit Yupik artist who grew up and lived on St. Lawrence Island in the Bering Sea, the western-most extent of North America. We acquired it in 2004.

Please respect that Yupik Inuit natives living in the harsh environment of St. Lawrence Island surrounded by the frigid waters and buffeted by icy temperatures of the Bering Sea, subsist on sea life. After the nutrients have been shared with the community, inedible scraps are discarded. They may be buried under the tundra or washed away by turbulent seas. This flotsam and detritus is prized by native carvers. It is believed to retain spiritual powers.

In accordance with international treaties, objects that include marine mammal residue, even ossified material, may only be shipped outside the USA with a Federal permit. The states of California, New Jersey and New York also have restrictions on such shipments. It is wise to check your state’s rules before ordering if you have any concerns.