Engraved Stone Pipe

Description

This is one of two platform smoking pipes recovered at the Town Creek site (31Mg3). Pipes of this style, commonly referred to as “monitor” pipes due to similarity in shape to the U.S.S. Monitor, are comprised of a bowl situated in the center of a flat or curved platform. Inspired by a popular style developed by the Hopewell Culture of the Ohio River Valley, this is likely a locally-made interpretation and is made from a dark green chlorite schist. This pipe has several engraved designs, including various geometric shapes and lines, an inverted anthropomorphic figure of the iconic "birdman" on the back of the bowl, and possibly a depiction of corn on one side. It was found in a pit feature at the northern end of the plaza (Sq. 70L50 Pit 26). It measures 73mm long, 53mm high, and 37mm wide. This model was constructed by David Cranford with 96 photos using Agisoft Metashape software. (Credit: NCDNCR/OSA)