Images(6)

Hunting-Spear

Date1700-1900

MediumBone, ivory

DimensionsObject/Work: 1380 mm

ClassificationsAgriculture/subsistence

Terms

Object numberC03292

DescriptionWalrus Spear or Kaatteelik. Shaft of a spear for hunting walrus and whale. Formed of the tusk of a Narwhale pointed to fit into a moveable head. In the middle is a small shoulder of ivory securely lashed as a thumb rest.

All individuals participating in a whale or walrus hunt would typically bring a katteelik and a tiring mechanism such as an attached bladder float. The men would use the katteelik to wound the animal and attach the bladder float, which would add extra weight and drag to its body. This was an effective method of hunting, but also a time-consuming one, and often took hours to accomplish.
Inuit.

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