Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2162:
Description
This remarkable ceremonial-style long pipe features a hand-carved catlinite (pipestone) bowl in the form of a seated anthropomorphic figure, likely of Plains Indian origin dating to the mid-to-late 19th century. The deep reddish-brown pipestone bowl depicts a stylized, contemplative figure in a crouched posture. The intricate “puzzle-stem” is a masterpiece of folk art, featuring a dual-helical wooden cage carved from a single piece of wood that houses a central catlinite inner shaft—a technique requiring immense skill to ensure the inner stone core remains protected by the outer wooden lattice. The item is in fair to good antique condition; the stone figure shows age-appropriate surface wear and minor scuffing, while the central catlinite shaft of the stem exhibits five noticeable cracks. Despite these fissures, the assembly remains solid with no loose components. H 4″, W 1.5″, D 25.5″. Please see photos for condition.
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