Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2173:
Description
This is a high-quality contemporary reproduction of a 19th-century trade-style pipe tomahawk, likely produced for the ceremonial or reenactment market. The ornate cast brass head features a leaf-shaped blade with elegant “S” scroll cutouts at the choil and a threaded pipe bowl poll that remains functional. A small, teardrop-shaped maker’s mark containing a stylized “S” or scroll is clearly stamped on the blade face near the eye. The hardwood haft is heavily decorated with brass tacks at both the throat and base, and it includes three distinct “finger hole” carvings along the shaft, giving the handle a flute-like appearance. A brass mouthpiece ferrule caps the base of the handle, ensuring a solid connection. While aesthetically stunning, the use of cast brass and the specific stylized maker’s mark suggest a modern artisan’s tribute to historical frontier trade goods rather than an 18th or 19th-century original. The item is in excellent physical condition, showing a warm, intentional patina on the brass and only minor surface handling marks on the wood. The pipe bowl shows carbon residue from light use. H 16.75″, W 8″, D 1.25″. Please see photos for condition.
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