Quadruped before 1500

This collection of carved miniatures was made by an unknown Inuit artist, and contains an array of animal figures and one human, all resting next to a small birch bark basket. Created by the indigenous people of the Arctic regions, these figures are a powerful form of cultural expression, reflecting a deep connection to the natural world. These figures may represent the animals integral to the Inuit diet, spirituality, and way of life, or act as talismans or teaching tools. Their creation reflects the resourcefulness required to thrive in harsh environments, using materials available to them to produce objects of both beauty and utility. The artist's decision to depict such a variety of animal forms speaks to the Inuit's profound understanding of Arctic biodiversity. The contrast between the animal figures and the single human figure opens up the possibility of thinking about the relationship between humans and the environment that shapes Inuit identity.