Bird Stones: A Mystery

Bird stones have been found from Nova Scotia down along the Eastern Seaboard and as far west as the Mississippi River. There are many theories about their function. Were they charms associated with religion? Were they fastened to clothing to indicate status or stage of life? Were they ancient game pieces or handles for a spear thrower (atlatl)? All bird stones are carved from exceptional types of hard stone, and the quantity of surviving examples indicates that they were quite popular.

Bird Stones: A Mystery

Bird stones have been found from Nova Scotia down along the Eastern Seaboard and as far west as the Mississippi River. There are many theories about their function. Were they charms associated with religion? Were they fastened to clothing to indicate status or stage of life? Were they ancient game pieces or handles for a spear thrower (atlatl)? All bird stones are carved from exceptional types of hard stone, and the quantity of surviving examples indicates that they were quite popular.

Carved stone pipe representing an eagle perched crosswise on a thin, curving platform. The bowl of the pipe is on the bird's back, and the stem is part of the platform. Wing and tail feathers are rendered in realistic detail but the rest of the body, feet and head are worked with minimal embellishment. Eye sockets are inset with lead. Such platform pipes are typical of the Hopewell culture, but this eagle is unique for the addition of the lead eyes and its very fine workmansip. There are a few equidistance tool marks cross wise which make it unusual as well. Condition: excellent.