Relics of the American West: 1850-1920 - ONLINE ONLY
Lot 2499:
Description
This collection features three compelling ethnographic weapons and tools, highlighted by a hand-carved bone adze with distinct pictographic dot-pattern carvings. These engravings appear strictly non-anthropomorphic, instead depicting zoomorphic or symbolic forms, potentially representing fish, aquatic life, or indigenous patterns common in Arctic or coastal tribal traditions. Included is a stone-headed slung club encased in hand-stitched leather on a flexible hide-wrapped handle, and a forged iron hatchet that displays unique, deeply struck geometric hallmarks—a series of triangular indentations—on both sides of the blade. The iron axe head is currently loose from its shaft and shows significant surface oxidation and a dark, pitted patina. The bone and leather elements exhibit authentic age-related drying, staining, and wear consistent with historical use. Adze: H 14″, W 4.75″, D 1.75″; Club: H 17″, W 3″, D 2.75″; Axe: H 16.25″, W 5.75″, D 1.5″. Please see photos.
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