May 17th 2014 Primitive American Artifacts Sale (12)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/16/2014
800-600 B.P. Mississippian era, Dallas phase. Megs Co., Tennessee in the Hiawassee River area. Fine limestone, covered in hammered native trade copper. Unbelievably rare ceremonial regalia from the "Southern Cult" phase of the Dallas culture. The base material is made of limestone which has been engraved to allow the delicate hand hammered copper foil cover to recess into the engravings to become a part of the embossed design. Appreciation increases with the fact that the origin of the copper to make the foil cover came from the great lakes region, 1000 miles from where these spools were found. Small pieces missing from both rear disk spools. Small chips along the perimeter of both spools. Perhaps 30% of original copper foil remains. Outstanding condition considering the delicate nature of this exquisitely rare work of art.