Mapuche Stone Pipe - Abstract Zoomorphic Form

Pre-Columbian, northern Chile, Mapuche people, ca. 1500 CE. A hand-carved stone pipe of a slender form with a narrow mouthpiece, a central receptacle, and a bulbous handle. The pipe is shaped to resemble an abstract zoomorphic creature with raised arms holding the receptacle and the 'head' with bulging eyes doubling as the handle. Forms like this example with a central receptacle chamber were common in ritual pipe smoking in ancient Chile. Pipes were symbolic gifts given between different cultural groups throughout ancient Chile, and styles made in different regions have been found far from their origins. Size: 4.75" L x 1" W x 1.1" H (12.1 cm x 2.5 cm x 2.8 cm); 2.4" H (6.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#148239
Condition Report: Loss to tip of mouthpiece as shown. Minor nicks to receptacle rim and handle, with light encrustations within receptacle. Light earthen deposits throughout. Old inventory label underneath receptacle.