Native American, Northwestern United States, Alaska, Beringian / Old Bering Sea Culture, ca. 200 BCE to 1000 CE. A hand carved marine animal bone or caribou antler harpoon head of an elongated triangular form with one projecting fin, a recessed hafting slot on the opposite end, a central drilled hole for fastening to a cord, and lashing slots. The surface has darkened due to the age of the material and might be well on its way to fossilizing. Secured to the end of a stable pole, this harpoon head would have been an invaluable hunting tool to the ancients occupying the territories which border the Bering Sea. These types of heads were fitted with sharp stone blades and detached from the pole once it entered the target- a rope leash kept the head taut which anchored the harpoon blade in the flesh while the hunter hauled his catch into the boat or shore. Size: 4.125" L x 0.75" W (10.5 cm x 1.9 cm)
Provenance: private Covington, Louisiana, USA collection
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#169873
Condition
Old abrasions and chips to spur area, but otherwise intact and very good. Dark patina throughout.