Exceptional Artifact & Collectible Auction
Lot 508:
Red Stone Bird Effigy Pipe, Pike County, Illinois, ca. 1970s
Red stone bird effigy pipe Pike County Illinois circa 1970s
Length approximately 6 inches
A finely carved red stone bird effigy pipe featuring a raised bowl on the back and incised geometric wing and body designs. The stone is a dense polished red material commonly used by Midwestern carvers in the mid 20th century. It is heavier and harder than traditional Ohio pipestone. The piece shows careful shaping clean incised lines and a smooth hand rubbed finish.
This pipe is consistent with the Pike County Illinois carving tradition of the 1960s to 1970s. This was a small but active circle of regional makers known for producing effigy pipes animal forms and geometric carvings. The style material and workmanship align with the work of local carvers associated with the Guthrie Lemons circle including
Billy Guthrie Pike County
Donnie Lemons Pike County 1970s
Other regional carvers working in the same tradition
While the exact maker is not documented the carving clearly reflects the techniques and aesthetic of this group.
Condition. Light handling wear. No cracks or repairs observed.
Provenance. From a Midwestern collection.
A strong example of mid 20th century regional effigy pipe carving suitable for collectors of folk carving pipestone traditions and Illinois or Ohio regional work.
Condition: Modern
Share this lot:
