Carved stone book

Carved catlinite book with floral motifs on front cover in a diagonal rectangular cartouche with fan motifs at top and bottom; back cover is carved with 'Book' with an image of a Sioux warrior and weapons. Hand-carved catlinite books with Native American motifs are common. Catlinite, also called pipestone, is clay stone that native Americans use for making pipes, beads, book objects, and other carved items. Catlinite is found in mines in the central part of the United States. It ranges in color from pale pink to brick red and normally has small lighter spots scattered throughout. It is smooth, easily carved and polished. -- description by Mindell Dubansky in consultation with Lynn Heckman