Calumet - Sioux Indians, Plains Region, North America - Circa 1880

CALUMET
Sioux Indians, Plains region, North America
Circa 1880
Catlinite and wood
Total length: 66 cm
Bowl length: 15; Bowl height: 9.5 cm

The catlinite pipe bowl, L-shaped and signed ‘Lone Wolf’, is mounted on a light-coloured wooden stem, carved with openwork decoration, balls and movable rings.

According to John Baldwin, in his book *Red Pipes, Indian smoking pipes of the American frontier*: “It is thought that finely carved wooden pipes originated as a pastime among white traders. This idea certainly influenced the Indians.”

The calumet is associated with ritual practice. Smoking the pipe could be an occasion to commemorate an event, inaugurate a settlement or celebrate an important occasion. It is said that the smoke rose up to the heavens, where the Great Creator resides. Calumets were kept in long bags.

Bibliography: Two similar examples are reproduced in the book *Red Pipes: Indian Smoking Pipes of the American Frontier* by John Baldwin, pp. 11 and 34.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

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