Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2081:
Description
This remarkable pair of North American lithic tools highlights the utilitarian craftsmanship of prehistoric indigenous cultures, likely dating from the Archaic to Woodland periods. Crafted from dense, speckled granite or diorite, the larger specimen is a classic full-grooved maul, featuring a deep, hand-pecked channel designed for secure hafting with rawhide. The smaller stone likely served as a light-duty hammerstone or specialized food-processing tool. Both items show significant percussion scarring on the poles consistent with heavy use, alongside a smooth, aged patina and natural mineral staining. While the larger stone shows minor modern-era surface scuffs, both remain structurally sound examples of early stone-age technology. These tools are most closely associated with the Plains Woodland and Plains Village traditions (approx. 500 BC – AD 1500). The “salt and pepper” granite is highly characteristic of glacial cobbles found throughout the Upper Midwest, specifically: 1) The Dakotas & Minnesota: Where nomadic groups used these mauls for crushing bison bones to extract marrow. 2) Iowa & Missouri: Often found at seasonal campsites where heavy pounding was required for hide preparation or stake driving. H 5″, W 5.75″, D 5″ / H 2.5″, W 4.25″, D 2.5″,. Please see photos.
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