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HISTORY / MATERIALS
Arctic Traveler's Gift Shop 201 Cushman St. Fairbanks, AK. 99701 Phone: (907) 456-7080 Email: info@arctictravelersgiftshop.com
WE WRAP, PACK, AND SHIP!
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WHALEBONE, BALEEN, AND SOAPSTONE Whalebone: Carving bone from sea mammal remains is an ancient custom of the Alaskan Eskimo. The holes in the carvings are a result of the natural porosity of the bone. Other holes are caused by nerve network systems. Baleen and ivory have been added to many carvings to accentuate eyes, or for spears, paddles or tusks. Materials are generally from St. Laurence Island, Alaska. Anyone can collect and carve fossil whalebone. Baleen: The 1800's natural plastic, baleen was once used in corsets and skirt hoops, umbrella ribs, and trunk frames. In the polar regions of Alaska, the Bowhead whale is the principle source of baleen—each whale has between 300-600 baleen plates. These plates create a fringe, filtering out larger fish but trapping tiny plankton and krill, the diet of whales. Alaskan Natives are the only people allowed to whale and use baleen in the U.S.. They also use the prized baleen to make tools, sled runners, bows, fish line, jewelry, baskets, and other crafts. Soapstone: Natural soapstone, used in native art since early times, is much softer than ivory and jade. It allows beautiful, smooth-flowing representations of wildlife and village activities. The smooth carving invite touch, but even a fingernail can scratch the surface. For a high sheen or dull surface, apply carnauba wax to your carving, then polish with a cotton rag. Back to Art Information page Back to Shopping
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