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Pipe Stem with Wampum

Eastern Plains or Western Great Lakes

Not on view

Both traditional materials and those introduced through trade with Euro-Americans are featured on this elaborate pipe stem. Attached to the front portion of the stem is the scalp of an ivory-billed woodpecker, a bird widely associated with warfare in the Plains and Woodlands regions. Plaited porcupine quillwork with hourglass designs—combined with silk, cotton, and wool fabrics acquired in trade—serves as a wrapping. Five strands of wampum (white shell beads), symbols of peace to Indian nations, hang from the ends.

Pipe Stem with Wampum, Wood, ivory-billed woodpecker scalp, wood duck and downy feathers, horsehair, deer hair, porcupine quills, two types of bast fiber cord, cotton fabric, twill-woven wool tape, silk ribbon, shell beads (channeled whelk), Eastern Plains or Western Great Lakes

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