Two fossilized walrus oosik bones, a word coming from the Inupiaq word usak or uzuk, a term used to refer to the baculum, or penile bone, of various Arctic marine mammals. The slight S-curve structure, distinctively dense composition, and thickened ends are classic anatomical markers of an oosik, and these examples have been harvested from the Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) species. Male walruses possess the largest baculum in the animal kingdom, often growing up to two feet long to support their massive body weight during mating season. Historically, fossilized or aged specimens like these were highly valued by Indigenous cultures such as the Inupiat, who fashioned them into heavy tools, knife handles, or war clubs. One large, and one small, the largest oosik measures approximately 21.5" x 2" x 1.75" thick.

Provenance: From the collection of Dr. Henry B. Collins and descendants. Collins (1899-1987) served as Senior Archaeologist and Head Curator of Ethnology at the Smithsonian Institution and spent decades conducting research throughout Alaska and the Bering Strait region.