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NATIVE AMERICAN BLACK & RED CATLINITE CALUMET PIPE

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:400.00 USD Estimated At:800.00 - 1,200.00 USD
NATIVE AMERICAN BLACK & RED CATLINITE CALUMET PIPE

. This pipe appears to date from 1850 to about 1870 & is primarily made of black pipestone, otherwise known as catlinite. There are 4 diamond shaped red catlinite inlays & significant geometric & edged decoration done in lead. The lead decoration was achieved by flooding carvings in the stone with molten lead & subsequently smoothing the hardened lead. Known as a calumet pipe, the word is derived from the French "chalumet" that means reed or flute. A truly sacred item to Native American peoples for ceremonial purposes. These were also referred to in the period as peace pipes. CONDITION: pipe shows light overall wear with a pleasing gray patina to the lead. (02-17068/BF). $800-1,200.