This little owl only measures 1 inch by 1 inch by 3 inches. The artist is Johnny Tunnillie, from Kinngait, which is/used to be referred to as Cape Dorset. More and more we see the names of Inuit communities changing to a more authentic name.
The little owl is carved in a mottled black (or is it a green/dark green?) stone and has a somewhat regal, fierce presence. Two of the above photographs were taken with a flash. As you can see the color seems to depend on the environment. The owl is a prominent subject in traditional cultures, its role changing from culture to culture. In Inuit culture, with their strong connections with their environment, we see the owl represented from their traditional legends straight into present day prints and sculptures. Recall the famous owl by Kenojuak Ashevak!
This little owl, fragile yet stout, scarred yet courageous, wise and "en garde", seems to capture a complex entity.