Reindeer Horn Dolls

Reindeer Horn Dolls
caribou antler, seal skin, beaver, leather, ink pigment
8"h x 3"w x 1.5"d (dolls vary slightly in size and there are currently a few in stock)

Inupiaq doll maker Susie Nayokpuk of Shishmaref, Alaska made these wonderful reindeer horn dolls. They have armless bodies carved from caribou antler and wear parkas which pull off over the head. A gentle twist will remove the parka. The pants remain attached. Each doll is signed by the artist.

Unique to Shishmaref, the doll is believed to have been invented by Andrew Tocktoo in the mid-1920s.  Sometimes used to soothe a teething baby or a prized toy for other children, the dolls gained popularity when a village store opened in Shishmaref in the 1930s. 

One of these unique dolls will make great addition to a doll or Alaska traditional art collection. Call for more information or email arcticspiritgallery@gmail.com.