Lot #101: Vintage Soviet-era soapstone carving of a Yup'ik couple

Vintage Soviet-era soapstone carving of a Yup'ik (Siberian Yupik) couple, produced in the Russian Far East/USSR circa the 1960s or 70s. These pieces represent a specific style of indigenous "Eskimo" art from the Soviet period, characterized by stylized human forms and intricate incised decorations. Hand-carved soapstone (serpentine) with a dark grey-green matte finish. The Couple: The Man: Depicted playing a traditional garmon (a type of Russian button accordion), a common motif in Soviet-era folk art. The Woman: Portrayed in traditional attire featuring a pointed hood or headpiece. Artistry: Both figures are adorned with meticulous incised geometric patterns and "stitching" details that mimic traditional embroidered skin clothing. Origin: Often attributed to unknown carvers from the Chukotka Peninsula or similar regions in the former USSR. They are frequently sought after by collectors of both Inuit/Arctic art and Soviet-era ethnic folk crafts Dimensions: 3.5” Pickup category timeslot {A}