Calumet - Sioux Indians, Plains Region, North America - Circa 1880
CALUMET
Sioux Indians, Plains region, North America
Circa 1880
Catlinite and wood
Total length: 84; Bowl length: 16; Bowl height: 8 cm
The L-shaped catlinite bowl is mounted on a light-coloured wooden stem, openwork with geometric patterns and decorated with coloured porcupine quill braiding at the proximal end.
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 Indigenous peoples.”
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. 2 and 35.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
Ref. 7251
Sioux Indians, Plains region, North America
Circa 1880
Catlinite and wood
Total length: 84; Bowl length: 16; Bowl height: 8 cm
The L-shaped catlinite bowl is mounted on a light-coloured wooden stem, openwork with geometric patterns and decorated with coloured porcupine quill braiding at the proximal end.
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 Indigenous peoples.”
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. 2 and 35.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
Ref. 7251
1 680 €
Period: 19th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Excellent condition
Reference (ID): 1803626
Availability: In stock
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