Who is Hross from Out of the Silent Planet and what is their importance?

The Hrossa look like otters or seals except they walk on two legs. Ransom finds them beautiful, "covered, face and all, with thick black animal hair, and whiskered like a cat ... glossy coat, liquid eye, sweet breath and whitest teeth." They represent gentle creatures who value art, pottery, and pottery. They are in peaceful communion with nature and the creator Oyarsa.