This pipe bowl is made of a type of catlinite, a claystone found locally and commonly used in peace ceremonies. Tobacco originated in the Americas and smoking featured in many types of ceremonies and rituals. It was believed that the smoke helped to carry messages to the spirits, the ritual was a way of connecting to the energies of the universe. Figures depicted on pipes, which faced the smoker, often represented their personal guardian spirit. The sacrament of smoking is very important and pipe ceremonies were often used to confirm a covenant or a treaty.
This L-shaped greystone pipe, in the form of a human head, has old copper and pewter native repairs showing the importance of this particular pipe. Most likely Ojibwe (Chippewa), it's a well executed carving.
Length 5 1/4 inches (13.33 cm) Height 3 1/8 inches (7.938 cm)
18th century
Provenance: Private Seattle collection
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
This pipe bowl is made of a type of catlinite, a claystone found locally and commonly used in peace ceremonies. Tobacco originated in the Americas and smoking featured in many types of ceremonies and rituals. It was believed that the smoke helped to carry messages to the spirits, the ritual was a way of connecting to the energies of the universe. Figures depicted on pipes, which faced the smoker, often represented their personal guardian spirit. The sacrament of smoking is very important and pipe ceremonies were often used to confirm a covenant or a treaty.
This L-shaped greystone pipe, in the form of a human head, has old copper and pewter native repairs showing the importance of this particular pipe. Most likely Ojibwe (Chippewa), it's a well executed carving.
Length 5 1/4 inches (13.33 cm) Height 3 1/8 inches (7.938 cm)
18th century
Provenance: Private Seattle collection
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
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