**Originally Listed At $1800**

Native American, Southern United States, New Madrid County Missouri, Campbell Site, Mississippian, "Bells Plain" type, ca. 1220 to 1500 CE. A stunning hand-built pottery bowl exhibiting a rounded base and impressively thin walls that curve gently inwards to a lightly flared rim over a deep basin. A petite plinth holding the form of a bear projects from one side of the ancient vessel. Depicted in stride, the adorable animal displays a thick body supported by four short legs, a pointed tail, and a round head with incised eyes. Another protruding embellishment is featured on the opposite periphery of the bowl, allowing the two to be used as handles. Scholars posit that in Mississippian culture bears were likely seen as protectors and symbolized courage, strength, good omens, and leadership. Size: 8" in diameter x 5.25" H (20.3 cm x 13.3 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report is available to the buyer upon request.

Provenance: private Kansas City, Missouri, USA collection; ex-John Townsend collection, acquired 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.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#161998

Repairs to rim and tail with restoration over break lines and restoration to small rectangular area near bear. Broken head/tail. Expected nicks and abrasions commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with lovely earthen deposits throughout. TL drill holes beneath base and within repaired area of bear head.