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Identification

Daniel Hedrick Alaskan Native Soapstone Carving of a Breaching Whale

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

The medium is confirmed as soapstone based on the visual texture, color variations, and natural inclusions. The artist attribution to Daniel Hedrick is highly confident (0.

Story

This piece was carved by Daniel Hedrick, an Alaskan Native artist active in the late 20th century. Crucially, it bears the official 'Authentic Native Handicraft From Alaska' Silver Hand sticker, a state-sponsored certification program ensuring the item was created by an Alaska Native artist using traditional materials and methods. The secondary market for Alaskan Native and Inuit soapstone carvings remains steady, supported by a dedicated niche of regional and marine art collectors.

Maker / Origin

Daniel Hedrick

Condition & Value

Based on the provided information, the sculpture appears to be in good original condition. Soapstone is a relatively soft medium that is highly susceptible to scratching and edge chipping.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for Alaskan Native and Inuit soapstone carvings remains steady, supported by a dedicated niche of regional and marine art collectors. Pieces that retain their official authenticity markers, such as the Silver Hand tag, trade much more fluidly and command a premium over unmarked tourist-trade items. Smaller decorative animal carvings typically move well in the $50 to $200 range on broad e-commerce platforms.

Value Drivers

▲ Official Alaskan Silver Hand tag guarantees authentic Native Alaskan origin

▲ Clear etched signature confirms attribution to Daniel Hedrick

▲ Dynamic breaching whale form is a highly desirable subject in marine and Alaskan art

Concerns

▼ Unverified exact dimensions — a smaller-than-expected scale would push value toward the lower end of the range

▼ Softness of soapstone — any unphotographed scratches or micro-chips on the tail flukes would require a condition discount

Best Venue

List this piece on a broad online marketplace like eBay or Etsy, which host strong retail audiences for Native Alaskan art. Utilize a fixed-price listing around $150 with 'Best Offer' enabled. Ensure the primary listing photo clearly shows both the etched signature and the Silver Hand tag, as these are the primary value drivers.

Upside Potential

If the sculpture is exceptionally large or heavy (e. g., exceeding 6 to 8 inches in width/depth), its presence as a substantial display piece could push the value toward the $200+ collector tier.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 3 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Bonhams Skinner· 2025-05-08
    Two Inuit baleen baskets and a carved figure
    Different forms and materials (baleen baskets and a figure).
    $1,024
  • Etsy
    A Native Alaskan dark black stone carving of a man and a seal. Labeled 'Authentic Native Handicraft From Alaska'.
    Different subject matter (man and seal vs whale).
    $350
  • Artisans folk art and antiques
    Native Alaskan stone carving of a man and a seal. Likely Inuit or Eskimo.
    Different subject matter (man and seal vs whale).
    $300