Sila Encyclopedia


Photo: Oana Spinu

Blubber Lamp (Qulliq)

Blubber is a thick layer of insulating fat found under the skin of cetaceans and various other animals living in extremely cold climates (seals, walruses). Blubber forms an important part of the traditional Inuit diet because of its high energy value. One of the major reasons for the whaling trade was the collection of whale blubber. This was rendered down into oil in giant cauldrons or later, in vats on factory ships.

Related Items: Arctic Char . Avatak (harpoon float) . Bearded Seal . Beluga . Blubber Lamp (Qulliq) . Jigging Stick . Kavikak . Niksik . Ringed Seal . Ulu . Unaaq (harpoon) . Walrus .

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