Native American Artifacts & Collectibles
Lot 340:
4 1/8" Double-Grooved Bar Amulet found in Virginia Ex James Shield Collection
A finely shaped double-grooved bar amulet fashioned from rhyolite and reportedly recovered in Virginia. The artifact measures approximately 4? inches in length and exhibits an elegant spindle-shaped form with a pronounced medial swelling and evenly tapered terminals. Narrow encircling grooves are positioned near both ends, creating a highly symmetrical appearance and providing suitable attachment points for suspension. The balanced proportions and refined outline reflect considerable attention to form and aesthetics during manufacture.
The amulet is manufactured from a dense gray rhyolite displaying scattered reflective mineral inclusions throughout the matrix. Areas of reddish-brown iron staining are present across portions of the surface, while wear and weathering have produced a lighter exterior patina over a darker underlying stone. The material is notably hard and durable, allowing the artifact to retain its crisp terminal grooves and well-defined contours despite its considerable age.
The overall shape demonstrates careful grinding and finishing, with the body expanding smoothly toward the center before tapering evenly toward each end. Both grooves are consistently placed and appear fully integrated with the surrounding surface, exhibiting the same patination and weathering as the remainder of the artifact. The strong bilateral symmetry and matching terminal treatments suggest the object was intended for suspension, display, or personal adornment rather than purely utilitarian use.
Condition is very good overall, with scattered handling marks, minor surface abrasions, and localized areas of natural iron staining consistent with age and burial. The amulet remains intact with no significant losses observed and retains its original profile and excellent visual appeal.
The material, workmanship, symmetrical form, and paired terminal grooves are all consistent with an authentic prehistoric bar amulet. Examples of this type represent a distinctive class of personal and ceremonial objects from the Eastern Woodlands and reflect a significant investment of labor in their manufacture.
No repairs or restoration are evident.
Ex James Shield Collection.
Condition: Ancient Authentic
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