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Decorative Alaskan Native Ulu
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Decorative Alaskan Native Ulu
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Decorative Alaskan Native Ulu

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.715057.14
Object Type Sculpture
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Intended Recipient (American, 1964)
Medium wood, antler, baleen, metal (brass)
DimensionsOverall (whole ) H 3 in x W 3 1/2 in x D 2 3/8 in (7.6 cm x 8.9 cm x 6 cm )
 Overall (artwork) H 2 1/8 in x W 2 1/2 in x D 3/8 in (5.4 cm x 6.4 cm x 1 cm )
 Other (base only) H 2 1/2 in x W 3 1/2 in x D 2 3/8 in (6.4 cm x 8.9 cm x 6 cm )
Physical Description
Physical DescriptionA decorative ulu made of baleen and antler, and presented on a wood display piece. The ulu is triangular is shape, with a piece of antler attached to the point at the top. On each end of the antler is a wooden cap. Scrimshawed onto the baleen is the image of a killer whale jumping out of the ocean. The base is made of a block of wood, with a circular piece of antler at center, and a brass support anchored at center.
Historical NotePresident Barack Obama received this ulu from representatives of the Native Village of Afognak and the Native Village of Port Lions, Alaska at a Tribal Nations Conference at the White House on November 5, 2009. An ulu is a traditional all-purpose knife, generally used by women.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library. Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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