Description:
Western Great Lakes Puzzle Stem Pipe, c. second quarter 19th century, the elaborate stem with shell and brass crescent decoration, with red trade cloth fringe on one section, the black stone bowl with lead and catlinite inlay, (old repair),lg. overall 37 1/2 in.
Provenance: Collected by James Taylor, an Englishman who emigrated to Canada in 1852, passed down to his great-great-grandson, Gordon Taylor Murray of Toronto.
Estimate $6,000-8,000
The stem is in excellent condition but it was varnished probably back in the 19th century. There are also a few small cracks. The small projection that fits into the pipe bowl has worn down so it is not a tight fit. The pipe bowl has a small repair and there has been a possible restoration on the fin.
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
James Taylor, Gordon Taylor Murray, TorontoAmerican Indian & Tribal Art
The American Indian & Ethnographic Art department handles objects of great value and cultural significance with expertise, respect, and a passion for the material.