CHARLIE PANIGONIAK (1946-2019) KANGIQLINIQ (RANKIN INLET)
Man's Head with Inuuk, c. 1970
glazed ceramic, 13 x 8.5 x 6.75 in (33 x 21.6 x 17.1 cm)
inscribed with artist's disc number and signed, "E3-13 / ᐸᓇᒍᓂᐊ".

Provenance
Private Collection, Ontario;
by descent in the family.

In this masterful composition by Charlie Panigoniak, the central Inuk’s face – detailed with sagging jowls, well-modelled lips, and eyes that gaze gently aside – exudes a serene contemplation. The textured hair and meticulously modelled planes of the face enhance the sculpture’s lifelike essence. Atop this primary face, two hooded figures emerge. The man at the front with splayed legs is poised with a club, while at the rear, another rests on his knees, hands gingerly placed upon them. This high degree of realism juxtaposed with the whimsical composition of the work invites our own contemplation and interpretation, leaving the viewer to ponder the relationship between the figures and the face. Are we envisioning the man’s thoughts of a recent or upcoming hunt? Do these figures represent protective spirits? Or, perhaps, we are glimpsing into this man’s reflections of his ancestors or family?

The experimental salt glazing method – where the introduction of salt into the kiln catalyzes a chemical reaction that culminates in a high-gloss finish, marked by streaks of brilliant, icy blue – is used to dramatic effect in this work. The contrast between the rustic brown clay and the vibrant blue glaze produces a visually captivating palette, enriching the texture and composition of the work.