Bentwood Cermonial Bowl

3D Model

Created by Yup’ik ancestor artist.

Materials: driftwood and plant material.

Bentwood bowls were made in the Qasqig (community house) using steam bending technology. The bottom of the bowl is carved separately and fitted tightly in a groove near the bottom of the vessel. The bowl was then sewn together with spruce roots, baleen, or other plant material to hold it together. This cultural belonging was collected by the National Banks of Alaska’s Heritage Library and Museum. Wells Fargo purchased the museum in 2000 and subsequently closed it in 2021. This cultural belonging was then gifted to the Alaska Native Heritage Center.