Soapstone is much softer than granite or even marble. The talc content of soapstone gives it a rating of 1 on the Mohs hardness scale. Because of this, it is easily carved.

Alabaster is a mineral or rock that is soft, often used for carving, and is processed for plaster powder. Both types of alabaster have similar properties. They are usually lightly colored, translucent, and soft stones. They have been used throughout history primarily for carving decorative artifacts.

This sculpture has been crafted in the tradition of the North, utilizing natural whalebone material obtained in rural Alaska. Before the introduction of lumber and other building supplies, whalebone was a critical construction material in the treeless arctic environment. It was used for house frames, sleds, utensils and tools. As a sculpting material, it was made into dolls, charms, fetishes, and masks.

Some of the whalebone currently used for sculpting is found in ancient hunting sites or in natural

“washups” of the giant skeletons and skulls found on the beaches. This type of mineralized bone ranges in age from several hundred to perhaps thousands of years old.

Today, artists use whalebone due to the interesting textures, shapes, and special qualities not found in other materials. Whalebone sculptures are also highly imaginative and innovative. Often, the design is simply an extension of the natural shape of the bone.

As carvers continue to create artwork from this intriguing material, whalebone will always stand out as a truly unique art form.

About the Artist: Eddie Lee

"Born in 1960 in the emerald city of Nha Trang, Vietnam, Eddie Lee expressed his curiosity for art as a young boy by sketching the surrounding nature. At age 18, Eddie escaped Vietnam as one of the hundreds of thousands of “Boat People” seeking refuge and a new start. After surviving a week in open seas and six months in a Malaysian refugee camp, he arrived in the United States - young and determined to find a purpose and passion in his new life.

Eddie made Seattle, Washington his home. It’s there that, without the help of formal training, he discovered his sculpting ability. He explored the Northwest Coast and Alaska extensively, where he observed the native peoples’ traditions, art forms, and spiritual relationships with the natural world. Moved by Alaska’s wilderness, he was inspired to convey its beauty through his art. 


Since establishing his studio in 1980, Eddie has garnered respect from art lovers and collectors worldwide. His place as one of the country’s most inspired and gifted artists is reflected in print media and TV coverage on networks such as CBS and PBS. You can also find his work displayed in a few west coast museums.


Each piece from Eddie’s studio is a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted piece by him and his original team of artisans. These pieces reflect the strength and the spirit of the subject and draw from the symbolism and spiritual connection of generations of indigenous people who have come before us. The subject, shape, and material are an expression of Eddie’s feelings and give new life to old forms. Eddie keeps pushing the limits of his art and achievements. Ultimately, he hopes to continue to share his art for all to enjoy across the globe."


Soapstone is a “steatite,” a precious form of soft stone that is highly valued as a carving medium, but is also used in baby powder, paints, and rubber. Deposits can be found from around the world, in colors ranging from brown, blue, green, and red depending on the mineral content. Eddie collects most of his soapstone from the Pacific Northwest. Gently rubbing with linseed oil can liven the color if they are getting lots of love pets