Description:

North America, Native American, western US, California, Chumash Peoples, pre-contact, ca. 500 to 1000 CE. A finely carved Chumash steatite (soapstone) mortar with original pestle, this remarkable example of indigenous artistry features a deep black patina and intricately incised serpent motif coiling around the body—its head clearly rendered with pecked eyes and nostrils, a symbol of spiritual protection and potency. The pestle, shaped to fit seamlessly into the concave basin, retains a worn surface consistent with extended utilitarian and ceremonial use. Chumash stonework of this quality is exceedingly rare, especially with surviving paired components. Size of mortar: 3" W x 1.75" H (7.6 cm x 4.4 cm)

The Chumash people, indigenous to the southern coastal regions of California, are known for their advanced stone working techniques. Steatite objects, often used in food preparation and ceremonial contexts, were highly valued and sometimes traded across vast distances. The incised snake on this example aligns with known regional iconography associated with fertility and transformation.

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#196416

  • Condition: Old chip at rim of mortar. Shows definite signs of wear. Beautiful old patina!

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August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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