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14848

Continuing our theme of small unidentifiable creatures, the inventory find of the week is a small zoomorphic spear (14848). Its cultural designation–the outmoded term "Eskimo"–only tells us that it originates within the vast circumpolar Arctic region. The shaft is wood and the point and zoomorphic counterweight are of bone secured with sinew. Judging by those pointed little ears, it may depict an arctic fox, the whiteness of the bone invoking its winter pelt. There is a small central dimple in the end of the creature's "nose." It confirms the spear was designed for an atlatl, or spear thrower. This technology multiplied a hunter's strength by extending his or her arm and increasing the velocity of the throw. At only 30cm long, this finely carved dart may be a toy or model. Museum records do not say for sure who collected this piece, but it may have been Jane L. Stanford herself. If so, despite its good condition, this piece is over 100 years old.

Wood/Bone

North America; Northwest

Collector and donor are unknown.

Anthropology; North America; Northwest