Description:

Native American, Southern United States, New Madrid County Missouri, Campbell Site, Mississippian, Bells Plain type, ca. 1220 to 1520 CE. A charming and rare pottery effigy vessel in the form of a bear with an opening on the back. The bear stands on four delineated legs, and a nubbin tail protrudes from the rump. The head features a protruding snout, incised mouth, rounded eyes, and pointed ears. This rotund bear may have held offerings or ritualistic items. Scholars posit that in Mississippian culture bears were likely seen as protectors and symbolized courage, strength, good omens, and leadership. Size: 5.25" L x 2.5" W x 3.25" H (13.3 cm x 6.4 cm x 8.3 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: private Kansas City, Missouri, USA collection, ex-John Townsend collection, formed in the 1970s and earlier

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.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#161640

  • Condition: Two TL holes on back foot and front leg. Loss and chip to tail. Chips around rim. Age commensurate surface abrasions. Earthen encrustations on the interior and nice burnishing marks!

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

April 22, 2021 10:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000