Native American, Southern United States, Mississippi County Arkansas, ca. 650 to 1150 CE. An impressive handmade pottery bowl in the form of a smooth cockle shell with a flat base and thick walls that curve upwards to an ovoid rim. Enveloped in a rich hue of taupe, the elegant vessel bulges at one side to form the umbo of the seashell. Seashells were regarded as highly valued trade items in Mississippian culture and were often carried north from the gulf coast region by prehistoric merchants. Size: 9.25" L x 7" W x 3.75" H (23.5 cm x 17.8 cm x 9.5 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and the jar has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: private Kansas City, Missouri, USA collection; ex-John Townsend collection, formed in the 1970s and earlier

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#161663

Repaired from about 19 pieces with break lines and adhesive present and some minor fissures and losses along break lines. Some light char marks. Otherwise, very nice.