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Possibly that word is Gruss, with an old-style Germanic double S... "Gruß" and it might say "Gruss aus Hameln," greetings from Hamelin.
Agree with Brad and Aaron; but I do love a mystery, such as the label. Upon reflection, I think it refers to the object as a "wee willie winkie"...
I'd agree it should sell easily; and it does appear to be a bear.
Just for comparison, here are some Northwest Coast native designs showing a more correct use of forms, and balance; note the use of parallel...
I don't see any mention that he is native; the gallery features works by both native and non-native artists. I'd have to say that while his...
That is sad news.
Tagua nuts are pretty hard; too hard to carve with a knife, so carving is normally done with hacksaw and files, per Wikipedia; I've never carved one.
Not unique; it is a style I've seen on blade blanks from Atlanta Cutlery, imitating forge marks; and I'd strongly suggest that as the source....
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