Woman with Katutayuq
c. 1969
Davidialuk Alasua Amittu (1910-1976)

The ancient Inuit greatly feared Katutayuq, a hideous monster believed to hide in abandoned igloos. Knocking sounds and other frightening noises heard during the night would be attributed to the monster, which consisted of a head with legs and three toes on each foot.

The snake-like spiral behind the woman represents the northern lights, which were believed to be torches held by spirits who searched for people who had just died.