pualuuq (Mittens)

Mittens were worn in one or two layers. Usually one layer was considered adequate and less clumsy. The mittens are constructed so that the area were the greatest wear and tear occurs, notably the thumbs, is seamless.

According to the old Museum ledger, Ian M. Mackinnon presented Frank Burnett with this collection of Inuit objects. They were collected during his three years of residence in the Coppermine River area, probably 1921-24.

clothing

The pieces are sewn together with an overcast stitch.

Pair of women’s mittens made of caribou and arctic fox fur. The mittens are each made of three pieces of fur. One piece forms the back of the mitten, another forms the upper palm and inside of the thumb and a third piece forms the lower palm and other side of the thumb. Several narrow strips of white fur are added at the wrists as cuffs.