Elm Burl Effigy Bowl - Jan 17, 2012 | Keno Auctions In New York
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Elm Burl Effigy Bowl

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Elm Burl Effigy Bowl
Elm Burl Effigy Bowl
Item Details
Description
Elm Burl Effigy Bowl
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, first half 18th century (or possibly earlier)

In the canon of Eastern Woodlands bowls this example stands high in terms of sheer elegance and quiet beauty. It is truly sublime. The highly castellated back with repeating scallops recedes from the bowl as it rises, which is quite unusual. With the introduction of the opposing crest, the origin of this bowl is likely Northeastern-central New York or Southern Ontario, which would suggest Iroquois or Ojibwa manufacture.

Though the nature of the carving is not fully understood, the castellation is interpreted as being avian in nature. However, it is possible that the rounded steps may refer to the backside of the underwater panther.

A bowl of similar proportions and line is illustrated though not discussed in Charles C. Willoughby's article, ""Wooden Bowls Of The Algonquin Indians,"" American Anthropologist, N. S., 10, 1908, p. 426. That bowl, however, does not have the opposing crest and appears to have fewer scallops.

This elegant 17th century ovoid bowl is distinguished by a large, scalloped edged, triangular form incorporated into one end of the rim. This element represents the stylized anthropomorphic torso of a Manitou Spirit figure. The smaller form on the opposite side of the rim refers to a tail. Bowls with anthropomorphic or animal bodies have precedents in ceramics made hundreds of years earlier in the lower Woodlands and Great Lakes regions.

In considering the shapes of these vessels we must remember that they are works of art that were meant to be used at feasts and these rim extensions had a functional use as handles to make them easier to hold.

-Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December 2011 L. 14 in., W. 11 3/8 in., H. 5 7/8 in.

Provenance: Donald Ellis;
Private Collection

The Peter Brams Collection

Estimate: $30,000-50,000

The Peter Brams Collection of Important Woodlands Indian Art
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Elm Burl Effigy Bowl

Estimate $30,000 - $50,000
See Sold Price
Starting Price $15,000
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