Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2052:
Description
This impressive shadowbox display features a curated collection of Native American style artifacts, meticulously arranged on a vibrant red felt backing. As a long-time collector of ethnographic art, I appreciate the diverse array of materials present here, including carved bone pendants, shell disc beads (heishi), polished stone (possibly jadeite or greenstone), and various animal tooth or claw representations. The arrangement includes two anthropomorphic or zoomorphic figures constructed from composite pieces, surrounding a central focal point consisting of a necklace of shell heishi beads approximately 5″ in diameter and a stylized bone bird carving. The “spirit figures” are particularly interesting, utilizing bovine or deer bone for the torso sections, drilled shell or bone discs for the joints, and polished tusks or claws (likely imitation or common bone) for the limbs. The dark green focal pendant appears to be nephrite or soapstone, while the darker circular “head” pieces on the right side are likely slate or polished river stone. The craftsmanship suggests a 20th-century decorative or educational assembly, capturing the aesthetic of traditional adornment. The items appear to be in excellent stable condition, securely mounted within the frame, though there is some light dust and minor age-related toning to the organic materials. The wooden shadowbox frame shows minor surface scuffs consistent with age and handling. H 13.5″, W 19.5″, D 4″ Please see photos.
Share this lot:
