Eskimo Phallic Ex-Voto

A remarkable and naturalistic ex-voto in the form of testicles and an erect penis with foreskin. Objects of this type are basically unknown in early Eskimo cultures, however ex-votos of other human body parts are recorded such as hands with and without mittens, full arms with hand, full length legs, torsos, and heads. Female genitals are often represented on figures or as abstract motifs related to fertility on mundane objects, however the male genitals are generally suggested or covered up.

Saint Lawrence or Punuk Islands, Bering Strait, Alaska. Punuk Culture 600 to 900 AD. Mineralized walrus tusk (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) with a superb patina of age and use. 4,1 x 2,1 cm.