Alaskan or East Inuit Eskimo bird Bolas. These are hunting tools for snaring birds in flight in the Arctic, probably dating from the 19th century. They consist of a handle attached to lines made of sinew, at the ends of which are attached weights. In this case there are 6 lines and 6 carved walrus ivory weights, 2.5" in length by 1" in width. Each had a hole bored in the ends to which are attached the lines. The hunter, holding the handle, swings the bola horizontally over his head in a circular motion and lets go after aiming at flying birds. If successful the lines snare the birds. This set is complete with the fortified sinew handle, 6 lines and 6 ivory weights. One of the weights is detached and the lines are somewhat snarled.