centuriespast: Androgynous figureA.D. 800–1200Punuk Walrus ivory This unusual figure represents a male with pronounced genitalia and emerging breasts. Among Siberian Chukchi, transgender male shamans were believed to be the most powerful. They were commanded by the spirits, sometimes female to shed all male pursuits and sexual manners at an early age when shamanistic inspiration first manifested itself. Canadian Inuit myth reveals that a transgender shaman created all women. This was directly associated with his ability to straddle the procreative nature of the sexes. A groove, perhaps representing a charm belt, encircles the waist. The shoulder/breast design is typically Punuk in style and could represent beads, tattoos, or clothing decoration. Princeton University Art Museum

centuriespast:

Androgynous figure
A.D. 800–1200

Punuk 

Walrus ivory

This unusual figure represents a male with pronounced genitalia and emerging breasts. Among Siberian Chukchi, transgender male shamans were believed to be the most powerful. They were commanded by the spirits, sometimes female to shed all male pursuits and sexual manners at an early age when shamanistic inspiration first manifested itself. Canadian Inuit myth reveals that a transgender shaman created all women. This was directly associated with his ability to straddle the procreative nature of the sexes. A groove, perhaps representing a charm belt, encircles the waist. The shoulder/breast design is typically Punuk in style and could represent beads, tattoos, or clothing decoration.

Princeton University Art Museum