Monumental Ojibwe Calumet Pipe, with Fine Lead Inlay Burl Bowl
late 18th - early 19th century
The stem, gracefully carved, is composed of nine cylindrical segments with deeply carved triangular elements (possibly representative of Thunderbirds), divided by a sequence of nine sculpted, convex spool-form “beads,” painted in red and black pigments; length 45-1/2 inches
The burl bowl, with a subtly beveled body, is decorated with lead inlay suggestive of feathers. The underside is further detailed with a split-tail design; lead-lined; length 3-1/2 inches x height 2-1/2 inches
The recurrence of nine, a multiple of three, may allude to the interconnected realms of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Worlds; further underscored by the use of red and black, colors traditionally associated with spiritual and directional forces.
For related examples, see: Tobacco Pipes and Smoking Customs of the American Indians (West 1934: plate 185).
This lot is located in Chicago.
Ex Sotheby's "Fine American Indian Art" (November 30, 1995: lot 126); Ex George Terasaki Collection, New York; Ex Trotta-Bono, New Mexico
