Sioux Catlinite Pipe Bowl and Tobacco Bag, with Inscription: From Chief Joseph to Sitting Bull to Lt. Kennedy
fourth quarter 19th century

lot of 2, includes:

a T-shaped catlinite pipe bowl, with tapered anterior projection; carved inscription reads, FROM CHIEF JOSEPH NEZ PERCE TO SITTING BULL SIOUX. FROM SITTING BULL TO LT KENNEDY
length 6-1/2 inches x height 3-1/8 inches

a thread and sinew-sewn hide tobacco bag; with remnants of quilled rawhide slats and beaded geometric design in colors of red white-heart, cobalt, pea green, greasy yellow, periwinkle, and white
overall length 22-1/4 inches


Although it is unlikely that the pipe passed hands between Chief Joseph and Sitting Bull, a case could be made that the pipe was given to Sitting Bull, while he was in Canada, by a Nez Perce individual.

In 1877, Chief Joseph began his trek to Canada seeking asylum with Sitting Bull's band of Sioux. Even though Chief Joseph managed to outmaneuver U.S. troops for months, he eventually surrendered to General Nelson Miles after the Battle of Bear Paw, just 40 miles from the Canadian border. A few Nez Perce, under the leadership of White Bird, did not surrender and made it to Sitting Bull's camp, where a pipe could have been given by the two parties.

The Lieutenant Kennedy identified on the inscription is likely Chase W. Kennedy (1859-1936). Lieutenant Kennedy was a West Point graduate and stationed at Fort Meade and Fort Sully in South Dakota with the 3rd Infantry, between 1888-1891. There is no documentation connecting Lieutenant Kennedy directly to Sitting Bull, however he was in the right areas at the right time making a trade possible.

Purchased from a Beverly Hills Estate

Tobacco bag is in relic condition.
For condition inquiries please contact madisonlight@hindmanauctions.com.