The Peter Brams
Collection of
Important
Woodlands
Indian Art17 January, 2012Afternoon Session
Front cover: Lot 322 (detail)Back cover: Lot 346 (detail)Inside front cover
Lot 308Inside back coverView of Peter Brams’ home
President and Owner: Leigh Keno, [email protected]: Sarah DeSanctis, [email protected] O’Brien, [email protected] Sheldon, [email protected] Skibitcky, [email protected]
Auction Inquiries & Bid Department:Sale Inquiries:phone: 212 734 [email protected]
Auction Online:This auction features online viewingat Kenoauctions.com and live onlinebidding at Liveauctioneers.com.
Conditions of Sale:This auction is subject toImportant Notices, Conditions ofSale and Reserves.
THE PETER BRAMS COLLECTION OF IMPORTANT WOODLANDS INDIAN ART
Sale:Tuesday, January 17, 2012 Afternoon Session
Viewing:Saturday, January 14, 2012 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Sunday, January 15, 2012 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Monday, January 16, 2012 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Tuesday, January 17, 2012 8:00 a.m. to End of sale.
(viewing available during sale)
Location:Church of St. Ignatius Loyola, Wallace Hall980 Park Avenue at 84th StreetNew York, NY 10028
Auction Code: 1005In sending absentee bids or making inquiries, this sale should be referred to as SALE 1005.
Ihave a secret. I have had a long-term love affair with burl bowls and ladles; I am crazy about the stuff and have spent most of my life seeking items for my own collection, and treasure every piece as if it were a fine jewel.
So, I can say with genuine gratitude and pride that it is a great honor for Keno Auctions to present and offer The Peter Brams Collection ofImportant Woodlands Indian Art. My love of Native American works, and burl in particular, goes back to when I was a young child. Growing up in Mohawk, NY, with my brother,Leslie, at the age of eleven, we discovered a small cache of bowls and ladles that were made by Woodland Indians – the thrill of it! There werethree experiences that had a tremendous effect on me regarding my introduction to carved wooden bowls and ladles, and I would like to sharethem with you.
The Sleeper : One day, in 1970, we attended a garage sale near my boyhood home, andpeeking out of a box just brought up from the cellar was a horse head – Leslie and Iwere practically overcome by excitement. As I examined the object I noticed the earsand eyes were delineated but the horse was actually the top of a burl ladle, with awonderful patina and well worn surface; it was $15. I calmly snapped up the unrecog-nized treasure and once out of sight from the seller, we proceeded to do cartwheelson the lawn! The Sage: A year later, I met the revered collector and dealer Devere Card inHamilton, NY, who was setting up the first exhibition of burl ever mounted in theUnited States. My parents began to regularly drop us off at Devere’s home and wewere allowed to run up the stairs to the inner sanctum – the “Burl Room”, where hekept his personal collection. I marveled over the organic yet contemporary aesthetic ofthe forms: the lushness and primal fecundity of a bowl and the well worn surface of its
interior. The delicate carving of an effigy ladle, its paddle worn from centuries of use fascinated me. When I learned that these pieces were notonly utilitarian but they had deep spiritual meaning to the Native Americans, I was hooked.The Failed Experiment: One day my father sawed a knotty wood burl off the side of a tree and I quickly grabbed the piece and started to hollow itout with a chisel and hammer. Leslie and I filled it with charcoal briquettes, much like the Indians might have done, but to keep the coals fiery hotwe cheated and fanned them with a hairdryer. Dozens of hours were spent laboring over that bowl and we ended up with a thick walled, homelyvessel. Today, that very bowl sits behind my desk. The experience humbled me, and made me appreciate how challenging it must have been for theWoodland Indians to create these beautiful, powerful sculptural yet functional objects, some using only stone tools. They were Masters of theircraft.The artistry required to produce burl bowls, ladles and objects was passed down for centuries, through generations of Woodland Indians. The quality of the objects created was far superior to that of the European settlers that came to America from the 17th through 19th centuries andtheir great sculptural beauty transcends time and aesthetic. Great art should trigger a visceral reaction. Great objects have an inner light thatdraws you in and envelopes you. Peter Bram’s collection of Woodlands Indian Art speaks to me on many, many levels in an astounding way.Thank you, Peter, for sharing the passion that you so fervently have for Woodlands Indian Art. Your love for and dedication to this art form hashelped build a collection that is simply unprecedented in terms of quality, rarity, condition and provenance.
—Leigh Keno, December 2011
Keno Auctions would like to thank Steven S. Powers for his expert assistance in cataloging the Peter Brams Collection.
LESS IS MORE
The Brams Collection of Woodlands Indian Art is the most extensive and comprehensive collection of its type in private or public hands. With anobsessive focus on Woodlands sculpture (primarily bowls and ladles), Mr. Brams, by assembling such an immense collection, has greatly aided in
expanding the understanding of this important material. Mr. Brams, born in New Hampshire, but long a native of New York has been collecting his whole life. For the past forty years, Brams has beenthrough many collecting cycles—often the next overlapping with the previous—a true evolution. In the 1980’s Brams collected contemporary fineart (Basquiat, Gilbert & George, Carl Andre), then in the early 1990 s Outsider Art (James Castle, Sam Doyle), which led him to American Folk Art(Bill Traylor, William Edmundson, Edgar McKillup, George Morgan, Moses Ogden, and numerous unknown artists and craftsmen). It was the best ofAmerican Folk Art that led him to Woodlands sculpture. In hindsight, it can be seen that in each step Brams was constantly sifting and refining, seeking the essential elements that compose great sculpture—assured form, quality of execution, and surface—which is the Woodlands aesthetic atits’ core.For those who have been lucky enough to work with a collector as obsessive and curious as Brams, you will understand that to view a congrega-tion of material like this together in one place was a privileged one. Though many Native American and Folk Art dealers are familiar withWoodlands burl bowls and effigy ladles—their experience in handing them are almost always isolated instances. Only a handful had the opportunityto view the Brams collection en masse in his apartment. Though the experience of seeing such quality and depth within a few hundred square feetwas aesthetically intoxicating and simultaneously mentally overwhelming—it was also the best opportunity for a crash or extended course inWoodlands sculpture. To be able to see first hand how representational forms transformed into reductive or abstracted versions of the same onladles and bowls was a unique one. Woodlands art separates itself from other North American indigenous works, by imposing the “less is more” or “simplicity is the ultimate sophistica-tion” creed. For an example in contrast, the art of the Northwest Coast is powerful, often loaded with color and can hit you across the room—Woodlands art is understated and intimate—it invites you in.
WOODLANDS BOWLS“They have dainty wooden bowles of maple, of highe price amongst them; and these are dispersed by bartering one with the other....” — Thomas Morton, circa 1625Wooden carved effigy bowls are important and profound carvings of the Woodlands culture. Their marriage of utilitarian form with ceremony isarguably unsurpassed by any culture. The carvings are intimate and understated, yet powerful and bold without any contrivance. The carved effigiesexude tremendous confidence and potential energy.
“Before any formal aspects of these objects may be effectively discussed, a single underlyingconcept must be recognized...wood is sacred.” Gaylord Torrence writes in Art of the RedEarth People: The Mesquakie of Iowa, 1989. Robert Hobbs continues from the same, ““They regard trees, for example, as their grandparents. And bowls are formed of burls,which appear on tree trunks in enlarged growths that resemble the swelling caused bya human fetus. Since a tree’s swelling burl is a metaphor for fecundity, these bowlsserve also as an image of hope in the sacred feasts where they are used.” ThoughTorrence and Hobbs refer specifically to the Mesquakie of the Sauk and Fox, thesethoughts can suitably be applied to the beliefs of all Woodlands people.Effigy bowls were not common utilitarian receptacles for food service—they werereserved for ceremonial feasts or medicine rituals. They were
created with such thought and purpose that today we can understand just a fraction of their original import.The Woodlands people were master bowl makers. Not only were their effigy bowls superb examples of indigenous art, their vessels for everydayfood preparation, serving and individual use were often remarkable works masterfully conceived and thoughtfully executed in hardwood burls (ash,elm and maple). Their understanding of form follows function lead them to ingenious and refined design—think of the classic Iroquoian double han-dled bowl. They appreciated surface and the complexity that use and age lent to these vessels and theseobjects were passed down from generation to generation—for wood was sacred.WOODLANDS LADLES“The end of the [ladles] handle is often surmounted with the figure of an animal or bird....These figures wereoften carved with surpassing skill, the proportions, and attitude of the animal being accurately preserved andstudied.” — Lewis Henry Morgan, 1851Effigy ladles of the Woodlands Indians are remarkably refined utilitarian objects carved with platformsthat display dynamic small-scale sculpture. A ladle is the personal eating implement for an individual.Larger examples were for the tribe to be used during feasts and ceremonies.Since, one was expected to bring his or her own spoon and dish to each meal, a small eating bowl andladle or effigy ladle was part and parcel of every Woodlands person. The effigy carved upon one’s ladlewas personally meaningful or representative of its owner. Effigies were often totemistic of one’s clan—bear, wolf, turtle, etc. Effigies, either abstracted or fantastical, were often carved in response to one’sdreams or illness. One would consult and discuss their dreams or visions with a medicine man and adesign and type of wood would be decided upon.Overwhelmingly, the perching bird is the most common animal found on effigy ladles. Others include thebeaver, otter, bear, wolf, panther, Manitou, and other mythological creatures. Human effigy ladles are quitescarce and tend to be early. Principle to the Woodlands aesthetic, the carvings look to capture theessence of the subject—in this case, effigies are often difficult to determine—they may reduce the carv-ings to particular details (e.g. an eye) or to the general architecture of the body. The beaver ladles inBrams’ collection illustrate this point well—without the aid of the more representational forms, it would have been hard to figure out the morereductive examples. The same is seen with ladles that use the demilune. In early examples it is more clear that this represents the eye of a Manitou,and though it was later still part of the carver’s vernacular, some of its meaning looks to have been lost in the 19th century.
Through our almost daily conversations on life, art and forming this collection, Peter has become a thoughtful friend and mentor—here I wish tothank him for affording me his friendship and the opportunity to aid in forming this most glorious collection.
—Steve Powers, November 2011, Brooklyn, NY
THE FAMILY FEAST
Imagine the aromas, tastes, and place settings at your Thanksgiving table with everyone ready to enjoy the special meal served on dishes reservedfor such occasions. We all know the pleasure of being part of those special family dinners and holiday feasts that embody our traditions and mark
our journey through time and generations.Feasts like this are a part of all world cultures and it continues to be of prime importance to the many tribal groups who have made their homes inthe Woodland and Great Lakes regions of North America for thousands of years. Since all adults used them, the expertly carved wooden bowlsand ladles used at these feasts were the most common utilitarian objects in the Native American homes of these regions and were admired andcommented upon by European observers since the 17th century.The only study of these forms after the first article published in 1908 (1), was an essay I wrote for the Detroit Institute of Arts that first appearedin 1986 and then again in 1989. (2) Therefore the present sale and catalogue of the Brams collection is an important opportunity to enjoy a largeselection of aesthetically refined examples of this important Native American art tradition.Given the nature of their use, Woodland and Great Lakes eating utensils are relatively small in scale, strong, yet light, with remarkably thin sides andhandles. The people who used them moved to seasonal camping areas and all their possessions had to be carried on their backs or by their dogsso weight and durability were important factors in their manufacture. Many of these utensils were made for daily meals but the most importantexamples were used in religious feasts and are decorated with images of animals and anthropomorphic figures. These figures had a variety of associated meanings. Some referred to an individual's clan affiliation and some were carved especially for importantceremonies of the Midewiwin Grand Medicine Society, healers, and even games of chance. In all cases the animal, human and spiritual figures carvedon these objects represented social and religious forces of prime importance, and their use expressed vital concepts of personal identity and reli-gious reverence. This tradition of representational imagery had its roots in the ceramics made in the ancient Woodland and Mississippian eras. The figures are of apleasing scale relative to the size and form of the bowl of which they are an integral physical and visual element. The forms are usually recognizableeven though they of a miniature scale and are carved with a minimum of anatomical detail. The subtlety of their proportions make them trulymonumental in scale and we can envision them being made into large, super-sized objects like Claes Oldenburg did with his Pop sculptures.As with most Native American art objects, those of the finest quality were made by specialists, master artists with superb control of their tools andmaterials and a strong aesthetic sensibility that could capture the essence of a figure through minimal means.Their carving tools were made of stone, shell, and even beaver teeth, and the surfaces of the wood were finished with a smooth, even, polish thattook on color and depth with repeated use and age. As F.W. Hodge wrote in 1906, "bowls that had been long in use for these games acquired apolish and color unattainable by art and were prized as tribal possessions." (3)Unless the objects have a strong provenance, they can only be dated by a close stylistic analysis compared to examples with a known history, andby an assessment of their surface patina relative to other objects. It takes a good deal of use over a long period of time to attain the rich patinationwe so admire in these fine bowls and ladles. I have been using ash ladles and spoons made by the Mesquakie carver Arthur Black Cloud that aresimilar to, but less realistic than the Mesquakie Dog Effigy Ladle (lot 360) in the Brams collection. After over 20 years of use the heads and handlesof my ladles are just starting to get a rich surface so I can imagine how may years or even generations were necessary to achieve a dark patina.As works of art both wooden bowls and ladles form a long tradition of aesthetic excellence over a period of centuries. An example of theirsophistication is well illustrated by the formal relationship between bowls with anthropomorphic effigy figures on their rims and their abstractedcounterparts. This can be seen if we compare the beautifully stylized anthropomorphic arms, shoulders, and neck on the Western GreatLakes/Prairie Manitou effigy bowl in the Brams collection (see lot 366) with the17th century Eastern Great Lakes elm burl effigy bowl (see lot 308)with the even more abstract effigy which is a minimal visual metaphor of the thing that is being represented.The same elegant transformation from the representational to the abstract is seen when we compare two early ladles in the Brams collection; theanatomically detailed Eastern Great Lakes (Mohawk or Iroquois) beaver effigy ladle ( see lot 372) with the more abstracted beaver figure on theend of its handle from the Eastern Great Lakes, New York area (see lot 376) . Each has its own distinct charm and power, two styles in one culturaltradition.
—Evan M Maurer, November 2011
Director Emeritus of the
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
END NOTES(1) C. Willoughby, "Wooden Bowls of the Algonquian Indians,”
The American Anthropologist 10, 3 (1908) p.423(2) Evan M Maurer "Representational and Symbolic Forms in Great lakes and Woodland Sculpture," in David W. Penney ed. Great lakes Indian Art, Wayne State University Press and the Detroit Institute of Arts (1989) pp. 23 - 38(3) F. W. Hodge, ed. handbook of American Indians North of Mexico, Bureau of American Ethnology, Bulletin 30 (1906) p.164(4) The Native American Heritage, p.124, no.130
6 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
301
303
302 302
302
301 Painted Shop Sign: D. A. Card. / ANTIQUES. / 52 UTICA ST.
Original sign for DeVere A. Card Antiques, Hamilton, NY. Card was a well-known
New York state dealer from the 1920’s - 1970’s who amassed museum quality collec-
tions of powder horns, iron and Colonial and Native American burl. He is regarded as
the “father of burl collectors.” In 1971, Card mounted the fi rst exhibit of burl in the
Country which was exhibited at the Munson-Williams Proctor Institute, 1971.
H. 30 3/4 in., W. 43 3/4 in.
$500-1,000
302An Ash Burl Scoop Depicting a Reductive Bird, an Abstract Maple Effi gy Ladle, and a Large Deep Ash Burl Bowl
The scoop and the bowl:
Central Great Lakes, early 19th century
The scoop with a large deep bowl hewn from ash burl with the handle extending
into the straight grain in the form of a reductive bird. The deep bowl with straight
sides.
L. of scoop 11 in.
The effi gy ladle:
Eastern-Central Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1820
For years this ladle was thought to be a cross in reference to the Christian conver-
sion that many Woodlands people experienced. However, after spending some time
amongst his ladle library, Brams started to doubt this attribution. It is Brams’ hypoth-
esis that the carving may actually represent a reductive bird-of-prey or thunderbird-
like a cross section.
(3)
L. 9 inches
$1,200-1,800
303Preening Swan Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, second half 18th century
This delicate example has a proportionally large bird with openwork between the
neck and body—the waisted handle is detailed with recessed bead at the waist.
Exceptional dark color and rich patination.
L. 5 3/8 in.
$5,000-8,000
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 7
304
306
307305
304Ash Burl Ladle with Large Preening Bird
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780
The handle large-scale openwork carved preening bird with delineated, incised carved
perch. The bowl with old reshaping during in-use period.
L. 7 14/16 in.
$1,500-3,000
305Four Bird Effi gy Ladles
1800-1860
Four bird effi gy ladles illustrating a range of different carving sensibilities from repre-
sentational to abstract (the two middle examples illustrate a bird of the same form;
one is representational and the other reductive and nearly abstract).
(4)
L. 7 3/4 in. (tallest)
$2,500-3,500
306Four Reductive Bird Effi gy Ladles
Great Lakes Woodlands, fi rst half 19th century
Graduating in size, four reductive bird heads, two with large coxcomb devices and
one with a large beak and another with pointed beak and a highly stylized coxcomb.
(4)
L. 8 1/2 in. (tallest)
$1,200-1,800
307Small Preening Goose Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1840
Delicate form with well rendered goose atop a simple handle. Openwork between
the neck and body.
L. 5 13/16 in.
$800-1,200
8 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
308
308Elm Burl Effi gy Bowl
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, fi rst half 18th century (or possibly earlier)
In the canon of Eastern Woodlands bowls this example stands high in terms of
sheer elegance and quiet beauty. It is truly sublime. The highly castellated back with
repeating scallops recedes from the bowl as it rises, which is quite unusual. With
the introduction of the opposing crest, the origin of this bowl is likely Northeastern-
central New York or Southern Ontario, which would suggest Iroquois or Ojibwa
manufacture.
Though the nature of the carving is not fully understood, the castellation is interpret-
ed as being avian in nature. However, it is possible that the rounded steps may refer
to the backside of the underwater panther.
A bowl of similar proportions and line is illustrated though not discussed in Charles
C. Willoughby’s article, “Wooden Bowls Of The Algonquin Indians,” American
Anthropologist, N. S., 10, 1908, p. 426. That bowl, however, does not have the
opposing crest and appears to have fewer scallops.
This elegant 17th century ovoid bowl is distinguished by a large, scalloped edged, triangular form incorporated into one end of the rim. This element repre-sents the stylized anthropomorphic torso of a Manitou Spirit fi gure. The smaller form on the opposite side of the rim refers to a tail. Bowls with anthropomor-phic or animal bodies have precedents in ceramics made hundreds of years earlier in the lower Woodlands and Great Lakes regions.
In considering the shapes of these vessels we must remember that they are works of art that were meant to be used at feasts and these rim extensions had a functional use as handles to make them easier to hold.
– Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December, 2011
L. 14 in., W. 11 3/8 in., H. 5 7/8 in.
$40,000-80,000
Provenance: Donald Ellis, Dundas Ontario
Troha Bono Shrub Oak, NY
Steven S. Powers, Brooklyn, NY
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 108.
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 9
10 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
309
309Bear Effi gy Crooked Knife
Eastern Woodlands, circa 1860
Penobscot, Maine
This knife is carved with a large bear’s head effi gy with relief carved ears and incised
eyes and a slight open mouth—chip carved decoration around the edges. Appears to
retain its original copper wrap around what appears to be the original blade.
L. 9 1/2 in.
$1,200-1,800
310
311
312
310Group of Three Related Reductive Animal Effi gy Ladles
Eastern Great Lakes, circa 1780-1825
The three likely all reductive bear effi gy ladles. The mid-sized one with a more
developed effi gy carving, exhibiting a fi ne patina under a later painted (mid-late 19th
century) seascape and lighthouse scene in the bowl.
L. 6 7/8 in.
(3)
$2,000-4,000
311Very Large Ladle and Large Reductive Bear Effi gy Ladle
Western Great Lakes Woodlands (Cree) and Great Lakes, fi rst half 19th century
The outsized Cree ladle is carefully carved with a thin bowl and proportional con-
cave-fronted handle—the whole with a desirable old fi nish.
The reductive maple bear ladle of atypical form, the ears carefully delineated and the
back of the head with a vertical incised line. The bowl with burled wood.
L. 14 in. (tallest)
(2)
$1,200-1,800
312Human and Bear Maple Effi gy Ladle
Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1820
One can only speculate its meaning, but possibly a transference of power or energy?
The whole is well executed with openwork carving around the fi gures. Strong tiger-
ing of the maple specimen throughout the handle and effi gies.
The majority of Woodlands/Great Lakes effi gy ladles feature a single representational element carved at the end of the handle. These fi gures are iconic forms that sit as majestic miniatures proclaiming a personal or clan relationship of the owner.
These two ladles (see lot 425 Human Effi gy ladle) are unusual in that they represent more than one fi gure in the case of the human and the bear, or one fi gure interacting with an object, such as the man smoking a bear effi gy pipe. In many cultural areas of Native America the bear is especially associated with healing and medicine. The bear and the human imply a narrative, a story that would have been understood by all who saw it. The use of tobacco and the smoking pipe are sacred ritual acts in Native American societies. So the representation of a man in the act of smoking was a familiar one and would have engaged the user and the viewer in another meaning-ful narrative.
– Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December, 2011, referring also to lot 125
L. 10 3/8 in.
$3,000-6,000
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 11
313Maple Bird Effi gy Ladle (Resembling a Bird Stone)
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780
The Woodlands people carved ceremonial bird fi gures in stone for thousands of
years before European contact. The fi gure carved upon this example resembles the
architecture of these prehistoric stone carvings. Maintaining a dark complex surface
with fi ne worn patina to the handle.
L. 7 1/4 inches
$2,000-4,000
314Ash Burl Bird Effi gy Ladle with Coxcomb
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, second half 18th century
The bowl is deep and full-bodied, the fi gure of the burl is vivid, and the effi gy is quiet
and elegant. The carving is interpreted in its entirety as a bird with a coxcomb and
the handle and bowl as the bird’s body.
Note the handles gently tapering concave surface. The old surface is very desirable
with mellow old patina.
L. 8 in.
$4,000-8,000
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 155.
313 314
315
315Iroquois Ash Burl Bowl with Open Handles
First half 18th century
Early shallow bowl with prominent open cut handles extending from the rim. This
style of handle is typically earlier than the later squared off handles with rectilinear
handholds.
H. 6 in., W. 19 in., L. 15.75 in.
$4,000-8,000
12 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
316 (detail)
318
316 (detail)
317 (detail)
319 (Abenaki wisk pictured)
316Two Penobscot Clubs
Large Penobscot Club with Face
19th century
Traditional Penobscot (Maine) club of exceptional character and form. This early
example likely to pre-date the late 19th and early 20th century examples made for
trade. A large male face is carved from within the root portion—fi ne fl oral chip carv-
ing covers the large handle.
These clubs, fashioned from birch root/burl, were not made as weapons, but were
used during important ceremonies and dances.
H. 24 in.
Penobscot Root Club with Carved Face
19th century
Fine early example with a single carved face with painted black highlights on the
carving of hair, eye brows and eyes and chip carved handle. Appears to be the same
hand as the large club that is illustrated in American Vernacular.
(2)
H. 20 in.
$1,500-2,500
Literature: Illustrated and discussed in: Maresca, Ricco, American Vernacular, p. 75
317Penobscot Birch Root Club with Carved and Painted Bear
Circa 1890-1920
Unusual example with a large bear head carved at the club end. The face is painted
red with red eyes. Foliate chip carving extends down the handle.
L. 23 1/2
$600-800
318Four Penobscot Root Clubs
Late 19th/early 20th century
Comprising, a monumental example with heavy chip carving on the handle and a
single large horned forest creature carved into the large burl, an example carved with
a small face atop a zoomorphic fi gure, and another with single large face, together
with a small, plain birch root club/stick.
(4)
L. 31 3/4 in. (tallest)
$1,000-1,500
319Abenaki Hickory Wisk and Basket Stamp
Woodlands, fi rst half of 19th century
An ingeniously made whisk out of one piece of hickory-the engineering and execu-
tion is astounding when one looks to fi gure out how it was made. Together with a
rare wooden carved Abenaki basket stamp. The stamp with stained remains of green
earth pigments. Basket stamp illustrated in online catalogue.
(2)
L. 11 in.
$300-500
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 13
320Atlantic White Cedar Burl Bowl
Abenaki, circa 1760-1800
Regarded by many as the masterpiece of Abenaki white cedar burl vessels. The soft
lines of the thickly hewn rolled lip, deep proportions and the repeating compass
scribed decoration make it a transcendent object. The exterior retains thousands of
overlapping rasp marks and the interior retains deep gouge marks.
The scribed decoration is a variation on the Abenaki double curve motif commonly
found on birch bark vessels and splint baskets. This petal design is seen on Micmac
and Penobscot gaming pieces as well as Abenaki made boxes. It is also seen on
Mohegan and Niantic (Southern New England) splint baskets (see DECORATIVE
ART OF INDIAN TRIBES OF CONNECTICUT, p. 21, fi gure 8, a-c). From the same,
Frank Speck writes, the designs “are pre-eminently fl oral, the fi gures being highly con-
ventionalized. The main parts of the blossom are pictured. The corolla of the fl ower
forms the center, surrounded by four petals....” The depicted fl ower is thought to be
the blue gentian, which was used for medicinal purposes.
For an in depth discussion of this vessel, please see, Powers, North American Burl
Treen, pp. 186-187.
L. 6 1/4 in.
$3,000-5,000
Provenance: Harold Corbin, Salisbury, CT.
320
321
321Atlantic White Cedar Burl Bowl
Abenaki, circa 1760-1800
This bowl has a tremendous presence. Typical of Abenaki white cedar burl vessels, it
is proportionally deep, has a delineated fl at bottomed interior and retains large gouge
marks from the hewing process.
Diam. 10 7/8 in.
$2,000-4,000
Provenance: Harold S. Kaufman, San Francisco, CA.
14 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
211�(detail)
211�(detail)
322The Thompson Family Seated Human Effi gy Feast Ladle
Algonquian, fi rst half 18th century
This important Delaware region human effi gy feast ladle is very large in scale which
gives it a strong sculptural presence. The bowl is carved exceptionally thin and
the fi gure sitting atop the incurvate crook of the handle has delicate open carving
between the arms and legs. Above the fi gure’s proper right eye is a carved feather
pattern (likely representing a tattoo or headdress). A small cavity is present on the
chest where the heart would be, (it is unclear whether this was carved or incidental
to age). It maintains an extremely desirable dry surface with remarkable patination to
the fi gure.
Provenance: The ladle was found decades ago in the basement of the Alexander
Thompson homestead, in Thompson Ridge, Orange County, New York.
The fi gure seen here is powerfully portrayed. The face is minimally carved with
only the eyes and nose delineated (there is no mouth). This reductive carving is
representative of great Woodlands sculpture; the maker was looking to capture the
essence of the subject—it is not an attempt at portraiture. Similar faces are seen on
pre-contact stone maskettes (please see Willoughby, Antiquities of the New England
Indians. Cambridge: Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, 1973, p.163)
and on an important Southern New England ash burl human effi gy bowl (Powers,
North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, pps.
100-102).
The full fi gure sits with backside to the ground, knees up and arms forward. The
same seated posture has ancient precedents and is seen on Woodlands works dat-
ing back to at least 50 b.c.-a.d. 250 (Brose, Ancient Art of the American Woodlands
Indians, p. 67). It has also been found on a small sample of ladles and pipes. A smaller
Mohawk ladle (American Museum of Natural History catalogue no. 50.1/1555) col-
lected at the Saint Regis Reservation, Franklin Co., NY displays a similar character
(though seated in the opposite direction). Another related effi gy ladle (private col-
lection), descended within a Herkimer Co., NY family, it too presents a full-seated
fi gure,which faces the bowl.
William Thompson (ca. 1700- ca. 1780) came from England to America in 1729
and settled near Hamptonburgh, Orange Co., NY (THE ORIGINAL HOUSES ON
THOMPSON RIDGE 1778-1822). He later acquired 600 acres and his three sons,
Alexander (1739-1814), Andrew (ca. 1741-1804), and Robert (1742-1832) divided
the property between them. Alexander took the best lot and built a fi ne home and
a working farm. His son, Alexander II (1782-1868) later took over the property and
became one of the areas most successful farmers (Seese, OLD ORANGE HOUSES,
Vol II, 1941, p.85). In 1803, Alexander II married Hannah Bull (1783-1865), a descen-
dant of William Bull (1689-1775) and Sarah Wells (1694-1796), of Hamptonburgh,
Orange Co., NY. Sarah Wells was the daughter of Christopher Denn, who was a
partner of the original Wawayanda Patent. She was also the fi rst permanent settler of
Orange County. The story of Sarah Wells has been written about many times—here
from the New York Times, September 14, 1884, William Bull’s Fortune, “...a sixteen
year old girl [Sarah Wells] trampling in the wilderness where no white man had ever
been before, and not a civilized being lived, with wild men [Indians] as her guides....”
It is not unreasonable to speculate that Wells acquired this ladle as a gift from her
Native guides or in trade through her Indian neighbors—and then it descended
within the Bull/Thompson family line.
Though catalogued as fi rst half 18th century, it is possibly17th century. The carving is
unacculturated and judging from the wear and patination it had years (if not genera-
tions) of ceremonial use before it passed into the hands of the colonial family.
Please see front cover for detail of fi gure.
L. 12 in.
$40,000-80,000
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 15
211
16 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
323Maple Kneeling Woman Effi gy Ladle
Great Lakes Woodlands (Wyandot), circa 1780-1820
Atypically, the carving is of a woman, as is her presentation. The deep proportion
from the front of the bowl to the back of the handle is dramatic and unusual.
She is quiet and solemnly depicted. As can be seen in the clever way the back hook
becomes her lower legs, she is kneeling. Her hair is exacting and beautifully rendered.
This ladle relates to a Wyandot women effi gy ladle (sold Bonham’s & Butterfi elds,
2004) and scoop (National Museum of the American Indian, cat. No. 14/9600)
H. 6 1/4 in., L. 4 1/2 in., W. 4 in.
$6,000-10,000
323
324 (detail)
Provenance: Wellington Collection
Exhibitions: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1982, in the exhibit “Pleasing the
Spirits”
Illustrated in: Ewing, Douglas, C. PLEASING THE SPIRITS, p. 348, Plate 427.
Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native American.
Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 172.
324Elm Human Effi gy Ladle
Great Lakes Woodlands (Wyandot), circa 1780-1830
This carving depicting a man’s head and neck is very compelling. The bowl is exceed-
ingly thin and the effi gy is meticulously rendered. The features of the face are subtle
and sensitively carved. Curiously, just one ear is rendered.
This ladle relates to a group of Wyandot human effi gy ladles one being in the collec-
tion of The National Museum of the American Indian and pictured in INDIAN ART
IN NORTH AMERICA, Docstader, pl 237. The character and features of the face are
remarkably similar to the face depicted here.
Most woodlands/Great Lakes objects identifi ed as ladles are actually used as spoons to carry food from large communal bowls to smaller individual ones where they function as personal eating utensils. The majority of these have a backward facing, hook-like projection at the top of the handle. This has two functions; it is a convenient way of holding the ladle as the hook rests on the fi rst fi nger of the user’s hand, the projection also allows the ladle to be placed on the rim of the bowl without falling into the center.
In this beautifully executed example, the backwards projection has been carved into the face of a man with smooth, contemplative features that are echoed by the raised rib that runs down the outside of the ladle, adding strength and elegance to its form.
– Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December, 2011
L. 5 1/4 in.
$5,000-8,000
Literature: Discussed and Illustrated in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl
Treen: Colonial & Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 172.
325Maple Scoop with Pierced and Incised Star/Sun Decoration
Eastern-Central Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1820
With a large bowl and a short handle this scoop openwork carved hole is framed by
incised star or sun decoration. Though related to other Woodlands draw scoops, the
architecture of this scoop is unique.
L. 6 5/8 in.
$2,000-5,500
326A Group of Three Related Ladles and a Large Maple Ladle with Pierced Hole and Sun Decoration
Great Lakes, 19th century
Two with similar deeply grooved handles and one with a deeply waisted handled
terminating in a small disc.
The pierced hole ladle, Central Great Lakes Woodlands
The design element here is similar to the large scoop with short handle (lot 325). It
too has an openwork hole with serrated design around perimeter and incised deco-
ration, the long handle here divided with a relief carved bar element.
L. 9 in.; L. 11 3/4 in.
(4)
$1,200-1,800
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 17
326325
328 329 (left and center) 330
327
327Abstract Effi gy Ladle and Two Western Cree Maple Ladles
Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1800-1820
The fi rst, carved from maple. This bold carving is without much precedent in terms
of stylized design and execution. Having a small, deep bowl and a deeply carved
handle with deeply cut “c” shaped hook at the end and vertical concave fi sh-shaped
carving on back of handle. Warm mellow color and surface.
The second two
Each exhibiting similarly delineated bowls and thin handles with a broad wing-like
shaping just above handle’s juncture to the bowl. The larger ladle with vivid tiger
maple in wing-like area: the smaller example with a full circle fl at edge at top of bowl.
(3)
L. 9.5 in. (tallest)
$1,500-2,500
328Ash Burl Bowl with Extensive Remnants of Red Pigment
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780
Deep oval bowl with thin walls and complex surface. The exterior retains traces of
original red paint. Interestingly, at one end of the bowl are what appear to be the
witness marks of three fi ngers in black paint.
L. 17 1/2 in., W. 12 1/2 in., H. 5 in.
$2,500-3,500
329Two Ash Burl Bowls
Hudson River Valley Woodlands, circa 1780
This lot refers to the two bowls on the left side of the corresponding photograph.
The larger bowl has a strong taper to it. It is very thinly hewn and maintains a dry,
almost ashen surface. The interior exhibits a well-defi ned area of usage with a dark
ring half way up and thousands of fi ne utility marks below it. The interior basin is
formed of a continuous curve and does not follow the lines of the exterior fl attened
bottom.
The second is of an unusual, almost rectilinear form with rounded corners and
carved with very deep sides. The exterior displaying a fi ne nutty brown patina and
color.(2)
L. 20 in. (largest)
$1,500-2,500
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 128.
330Medium Ash Burl Bowl with Shouldered Ends
Eastern Great Lakes, early 19th century
In the form of a handled bowl, but due to its smaller size not needing the utility of
the pierced handles. Proportionally with a deep sweep and a small foot. The under-
side is unexpectedly beautiful with a deep carved into the bottom. Old collection
number “14” on the underside of the bottom.
H. 4 in., L. 11 in., W. 7 3/8 in.
$3,000-6,000
18 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
331 332
332
333
335
331Elm Burl Bowl with Shouldered Ends
Eastern Great Lakes, circa 1780
Medium sized bowl with raised shoulders. The specimen of burl, being particularly
dense, has taken on a high polish the exterior.
In 1908, Charles C. Willoughby said, “A Chippewa bowl of elm wood, with side
projections...is an excellent example of native woodworking. The walls are thin and
of uniform thickness, the outlines being unusually graceful.” From “Wooden Bowls Of
The Algonquin Indians,” American Anthropologist, N. S., 10, 1908, p. 431.
Together with a bone scoop (2)
H. 3 1/2 in., L. 10 3/8 in., W. 7 in.
$4,000-6,000
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial &
Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 126.
332Three Small Woodlands Vessels
Early 19th century
The fi rst, a Woodlands small handled cup with interior keel appears to be hewn
from maple burl. This small bowl or cup is hewn with a well-balanced form and inte-
rior keel or divided spine to the interior wall near the handle. This keel is part of the
architecture of fi ne Woodlands ladles.
L. 4 in.
The second, a small handled woodlands effi gy dish, possibly the image of a frog hewn
from well-fi gured maple with evidence of carbonization to the bowl
L. 6 1/4 in.
The third, a maple effi gy spoon, possibly the image of a frog. The spoon maintains a
complex surface
See Kenoauctions.com for illustration of effi gy spoon
(3)
L. 4 15/16 in.
$1,500-2,500
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial &
Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 141.
333Maple Burl Bowl and Ladle
Iroquois (Seneca), mid 18th century
This bowl is proportionally deep and hewn from an extremely dense specimen of
maple burl. The interior is blackened from carbonization probably caused by heated
stones placed in the piece.
Because of the extreme density of the wood and general handling the surface of
each has taken on a deep burnish and a high polish. There is an old loss to the rim of
the bowl as well as several small cracks from the rim, and an old chip on the edge of
the ladle of the bowl.
(2)
(bowl) H. 4 in., L. 8 7/8 in.
$2,000-4,000
Literature: Illustrated and discussed in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen:
Colonial & Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 132.
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 19
336
337
334No Lot
335Group of Three Reductive Animal Effi gy Ladles
Eastern Great Lakes, circa 1780-1840
One of a large abstracted animal or trans-anthropomorphic fi gure with open carving, one of fi gured maple with a
fi nely peaked back and deeply carved grooved open talon, and one a reductive horse.
(3)
L. 8 3/4 in. (tallest)
$2,500-4,500
336Effi gy Knife with Pig Effi gy and Quilled Sheath
18th century / early 19th century
Though the tradition of effi gy carving is evident through study of the Brams collection, carved knives as such are
quite rare. French made trade blades were put to practice just as were pipe tomahawk blades—the Woodlands
people would haft them and make it their own, with ornamental metal, bead and quill work.
The sheath is composed of deerskin, sinew and dyed porcupine quills and would have had an attachment near
the top to hang around the neck of a warrior. The knife’s handle is carved from a fruitwood in the form of a pigs’
head. Though pigs were sometimes carved in the tradition of the Iroquois false-face, it is rare to see it carved here.
Another rare pig effi gy piece, also in the Brams collection, is the tiny pig effi gy ladle (Lot 337)
Knife L. 9 3/8 in., cover L. 9 1/4 in.
$15,000-30,000
Provenance: Herbert G. Wellington
Exhibitions: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1982, “Pleasing the Spirits”
Literature: Illustrated in: Ewing, Douglas C. Pleasing the Spirits; A Catalogue of a Collection of American Indian Art,
fi g. 124
337Very Diminutive Maple Burl Pig Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands (Iroquois), 2nd half 18th century
The presentation of the effi gy here is atypical, as it has no distinct separation from the stem of the handle. The
effi gy appears to be the head of a pig with ears, snout, and a slightly open mouth.
This is the smallest ladle in the Brams collection and the smallest that we have observed—note should be made of
its scale.
L . 3 1/8 in.
$4,000-8,000
Provenance: DeV ere, Card, Hamilton, N.Y.
Exhibitions: Munson-Williams-Proctor Institute; 1971
Illustrated in: THE USE OF BURL IN AMERICA, DeVere Card, p. 11, Plate III.
20 Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
340 Very Small Maple Burl Bowl with Raised Ends
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780
Small sized medicine or ceremonial bowl. The shaped raised ends in the subtle out-
line of a reductive Manitou. The whole having evidence of an extensive use history.
The piece exhibits excellent patination and dark color.
H. 3 1/4 in., L. 4 in., W. 3 in.
$3,000-6,000
341Very Small Woodlands Maple Burl Oval Dish with Beaded Rim
late 18th/early 19th century
A fi ne example with a well defi ned shallow basin and beaded rim. Complex surface
on rim and interior.
H: 1 1/2 in., L. 4 1/4 in., W. 3 3/8 in.
$1,000-2,000
Provenance: Herbert Wellington Collection
338Small Elm Burl Bowl with Shouldered Ends
Eastern Great Lakes, late 18th century
Quietly sophisticat ed form with deep proportions and the raised shouldered ends
each with a subtle beaded edge to aid in handling the bowl.
Interior maintains a highly complex-carbonized surface.
H. 2 7/8 in., L. 8 in., W. 6 in.
$3,000-5,000
339Small Maple Burl Bowl with Reductive Manitou
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, late 18th century
Small-medium sized medicine or ceremonial bowl. The shaped raised ends in the
outline of a horned Manitou.
The bowl has evidence of an extensive use history and excellent patination with dark
color. The interior and one end of the exterior are darkened from exposure to heat.
H. 2 1/2 in., L. 6 1/2 in., W. 5 1/4 in.
$4,000-6,000
338 339
340 341
Additional Information, Photographs and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 21
342Five Ladles with Reductive Manitou and Bird Features, two with 19th Century Labels
Great Lakes, fi rst half, 19th century
Two with incised Manitou eyes, one with a deeply grooved talon, one plain ladle with an old printed label, and a reductive thunder bird ladle worn from the repetitive use of a left hander, with early hand written label, “75 years old - year of 1909 - Made by an Indian whose name was Tutmosmaw.” (5)
L. 9 in. (tallest)
$2,000-3,000
343A Group of Seven Ladles and One Crooked Knife
Great Lakes Woodlands and Abenaki, circa 1780-1870
The ladles containing a few reductive Manitou effi gy examples, two birds and two
abstract examples.
The crooked knife carved with a large disc terminal, which relates to two of the ladles. (8)
ladle L. 10 3/4 in. (tallest); knife L. 11 5/8 in.
$1,200-1,800
344Three Ladles and One Dipper
Great Lakes Woodlands, 18th/19th century
Comprising of an early Eastern Great Lakes ladle with large demilune shaped opening in handle, a large Central-Western Great Lakes ladle with a shaped lead wrap, a ladle with an openwork demilune shaped notch, and a large dipper. (4)
L. 11 in. (tallest)
$800-1,200
345Small Medicine Ladle with Stepped Sides
Circa 1780
The small scale of this piece should be noted. The ladle is masterfully rendered with
a deliberate vision. (The top crescent may represent a quahog shell from which
wampum was made-the Onondaga were the keepers of the wampum. Or it may also
represent the head of a Manitou.) The handle has stepped sides.
The crescent on top is similar to a Seneca ladle in the collection at the American
Museum of Natural History (cat.# 50.1/1519).
L. 4 1/4 in.
$2,000-4,000
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 166.
343342
345344 344 344
22 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
346 (detail)
(Cat. #A240915-0) Department of Anthropology, Smithsonian Institution
346Figured Maple Lynx/Bobcat Effi gy Ladle
Great Lakes, circa 1780
Looking head on at this powerful sculpture, one should take note of the outline
formed by the top of the head and the ears (please see back cover of present cata-
logue) This outline in full or in part can be seen on several important effi gies bowls
and ladles as the basis for the Manitou effi gy. A related panther sculpture (dating
from A.D. 1000-1500) illustrating this upper head outline is in the collection of the
Smithsonian Institution (#240915). (Please see illustration below)
The lynx ladle seen herein is the only known example of its kind. The airy open carv-
ing between the animals front legs and body and the commanding posture it displays
is remarkable. The quality and sculptural quality of the piece is compelling and engag-
ing. It is interesting to note that the posture seen here is strikingly similar to that of
the Thompson Family human effi gy ladle (Lot 322).
Central to Woodlands mythology was the Manitou known as the Mishipizheu, or the
Underwater Panther. This spirit creature was a powerful mix of a wild cat or lynx,
serpent and horned bison and/or deer. Sculptural and pictorial depictions of this
being extend back to the Mississippian Culture (800 - 1500).
Within the Brams collection one will see several ladles and bowls with diagnostic
elements that represent this creature. This is one of the most important examples
known. The surface color and patina are extremely desirable.
Out of context and without this aid the meaning of this form or reductive variations
of it are hard to determine as anything meaningful. It may be argued that even within
the Woodlands culture of the late 19th century the true meaning of these elements
might have been lost to some of the carvers, cut they continued to include them
into their crafts as they had already been deeply imbedded as part of their sculptural
vernacular.
The artist who conceived and carved this ladle expressed a sense of movement and action unusual in a piece with only one fi gure. The large feline predator is shown climbing the handle of the ladle as if it were the trunk of a tree. It is perched there looking out over the landscape, on the alert for its prey and its next meal. As such it is a symbol of watchfulness, stealth, strength, and the potential for action, all of which are essential functions of the male hunter or warrior.
– Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December, 2011
L. 7 7/8 in.
$30,000-50,000
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 23
�235
24 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
348Large Ash Burl Bowl with Shouldered Ends and Recessed Handles
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780-1820
A large bowl hewn thin from a magnifi cent burl specimen. The execution of the shouldered
oval with cut-in recessed handles is extremely well done. As with many Woodlands carv-
ings, the artisan honored the burl and left the natural inclusions untouched and unfi lled. The
underside of bottom is slightly concave.
The color and the surface integrity are exceptional.
H. 5 1/2 in., L. 20 1/2 in., W. 15 1/4 in.
$6,000-9,000
347
348
347Ash Burl Bowl with High Shouldered Ends and a Maple Bowl with Single Sided Shoulder or Castellation
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands and Central Great Lakes, late 18th century
The fi rst, a large ash burl bowl being the earlier of the two has a dynamic sweep between
the high ends and low sides, of excellent fi gure and surface, however with loss in the bot-
tom.
Central Great Lakes, circa 1800
The second, of maple and circular in form with one wide raised shoulder.
L. 17 3/8 in., W. 13 3/8 in. (larger); H. 3 5/8 in., Diam. 13 3/8 in. (smaller)
(2)
$3,000-6,000
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 25
349 (burl tray is not pictured)
350
351
352
349Small Ash Burl Tray and Oval Elm Burl Bowl
Both from Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1800
Flat trays or dishes are a rare form in North American burl. This example is hewn
from a tight burl specimen.
L. 5 11/16 in., W. 4 1/4 in.
The second is a medium sized bowl thinly hewn from well-fi gured elm burl. Early
pencil script is on the bottom (illegible).
L. 7 in., W. 5 3/4 in. (2)
See Kenoauctions.com for illustration
$1,500-2,500
351Oval Ash Burl Bowl with Tapered Sides on a Raised Foot
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780
Atypical form, very thinly hewn. Great surface with carbonized rim. Collection label
from 1985 reads, “Finest American burl bowl I’ve ever seen - Extremely fi ne oblong
burl bowl - very early -original - carved and burned out hollow.” h. 9 1/4 in., w. 6 in.
$2,500-4,500
350Group of Seven Maple and Ash Burl Bowls
Eastern Great Lakes, circa 1780-1800
An assembled graduated stack of bowls, containing four small tapered bowls (the larger ex. Lillian Cogan), and three medium sized hewn round bowls. (7) diam. 9 (largest)
(7)
$3,000-5,000
The large bowl in rear right of photo is not included in the lot.
352Reductive Bird Form Net Float
Northwest Coast, fi rst half, 19th century
With well oxidized color and darkened surface from black pigment and grime drip-
pings. The weathered surface is from exposure to the elements.
H. 8 in., L. 12 1/2 in.
$1,200-1,800
26 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
353
354 355
353Maple Bird Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands (Iroquois), 1750-1785
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
-Leonardo Da Vinci
This is a great example to show how sublime an object can be when
all the right things align: design, execution and surface. The well-
balanced large bowl and very thin handle lead into an ever so slightly
crooked perch upon which a beautifully sculpted bird sits. The whole
maintains a complex, dark and rich patina.
H. 8 1/2 in., L. 7 1/2 in., W. 5 1/4 in.
$4,000-8,000
354Thunder Bird Effi gy Ladle
Eastern-Central Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1840
Strong form with a very Modern feel--the whole thinly hewn and
blackened with heavily carbonized smoke. Tool marks evident on top
of bird’s head.
L. 7 1/8 in.
$2,000-4,000
355Bird of Prey Effi gy Ladle
Eastern-Central Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1820-1840
With a large, highly stylized, bird of prey atop a wide thinly hewn hale
and bowl. Dark Surface blackened with heavily carbonized smoke.
Retaining an old collection label on the back, “#388 - Winnebago -
Maple Sugar Spoon
L. 8 9/16 in.
$1,500-2,500
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 27
356
359
357 (detail) 358
359A Group of Four Bird and Reductive Bird Effi gy Ladles
Eastern-Western Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1740-1840
The fi rst, possibly a grouse with a complex early surface, the next of abstracted form,
another, in maple, of a fully rendered bird with tiger maple upper handle (probably
Cree), and another of a reductive thunder bird.
(4)
L. 9 5/8 in. (tallest)
$1,500-2,500
356Large Effi gy Ladle with Bird of Prey and Incised Carved Handle
Eastern-Central Great Lakes Woodlands, late 18th/early 19th century
Well balanced ladle with a large, very thin carved bowl with incised carving up the
handle that leads to small effi gy of a bird of prey. The bird with openwork carving
around its beak, body and perch.
The incised carving on the handle is reminiscent of designs on Eastern-Central Great
Lakes textiles.
L. 8 11/16 in.
$4,000-6,000
357Rare Raptor Effi gy Pipe Tamp
Circa 1870
Small scale sculpture in the manner of an effi gy ladle, but on a Plains Indian pipe
tamp. The scale of the bird in relation to the tamp gives it a strong presence.
L. 12 3/4 in.
$2,000-4,000
358Reductive Thunder Bird Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lake Woodlands, circa 1800
A deceptively simple effi gy ladle with the sleek head of a thunder bird incorporated
into the short handle. The whole is masterfully executed with a thin bowl, the bowl
leading straight into the handle within the same curve. The carving is quite modern in
feeling and has a slight Art Deco feel to it.
L. 6 5/8 in.
$2,000-4,000
28 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
60 (detail)
25/ 25/
360Dog Effi gy Ladle
Mesquakie Settlement, circa 1865-1885
A striking ladle with a large well-rendered dog carved with ears and teeth within a
partially opened mouth. White glass trade bead eyes with brass tacks. The large bowl
carved fi nely and is thin, the handle with subtle keel to the back extending to the
back of the bowl.
Possibly carved by John Young Bear’s father or grandfather. Young Bear comes from
a family of fi ne Mesquakie carvers. A superb heddle by John Young Bear is in the col-
lection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. (81. 369)
The Mesquakie people have lived on their tribal lands in Tama, Iowa, since the 1830’s. They are known for their fi nely made beadwork and their carved wooden objects used in ceremonies and feasts. As with all styles of Woodlands/Great Lakes effi gies, most Mesquakie fi gures are iconic images that refer to the whole class of an animal type by presenting the typical, formal, qualities that defi ne the subject being depicted.
This dog effi gy is a unique exception in that it clearly represents a particular animal. With careful renditions of anatomical details like the open mouth, the bright staring eyes, and the ears that stand up at attention, this canine is clearly a portrait of the owner’s favorite companion who participated in the hunt and protected the family.
– Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December, 2011
L. 9 1/2 in.
$12,000-18,000
Provenance: By descent through the family of John Young bear, Mesquakie
Settelment, Iowa
Personal Correspondence: Gaylord Torrence, An Important Figural Ladle from the
Mesquakie Settlement, June 2006
Gaylord Torrence, Kansas City, Mo
Ned Jalbert
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 29
362
361
363
361Burl Dog Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, 1780-1840
Though the dog was an important animal to the Woodlands people, dog effi gies on
ladles are quite uncommon. The character of the dog is well captured with a slightly
cocked head, protrusions for ears, incised snout, and well rendered jowls.
The bowl is proportionally small to the size of the handle and was likely once much
larger, having been reshaped during its time of use.
Surface maintains a rich patina from use.
L. 9 in.
$3,000-5,000
362Two Dog Effi gy Ladles
The fi rst, Eastern Woodlands, possibly Northeast Coast near Maine/Eastern Canada,
circa 2nd half 18th century
Early ladle with a dog head effi gy including eyes carved from the short handle of a
large ladle or scoop-a large openwork circular hole is carved at the back of the scoop
near where it meets the handle.
L. 10 3/4 inches
The second, Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1800
Carved from a dense specimen of maple, this ladle has a reductive dog’s head carved
with details such as eyes and mouth, with a concave grove at the top of the head.
L. 10 1/2 in. (2)
$2,000-4,000
363An Assorted Group of Nine Hewn and Turned Ash and Elm Burl Bowls
American Woodlands, circa 1780-1860
Of varied size, color and surfaces, forming an irregular stack.
(9)
H. 3 3/4 in., W. 8 13/16 in. (largest)
$1,500-2,500
30 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
364Reductive Elm Effi gy Ladle
Great Lakes (Potawatomi), second half, 18th century
Though the meaning of this enigmatic effi gy is unknown to us-its form imparts a
message of signifi cant power. Brams has hypothesized that the form is a reductively
blocked interpretation of a bird of prey.
Warm mellow patina with a dry bowl and a well patinated handle from hand use.
L. 7 in.
$10,000-15,000
Provenance: Ted Trotta & Anna Bono, Shrub Oak, NY
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steven S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial &
Native American. Brooklyn, N. Y., 2005, p.164.
253 364 (detail)
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 31
254
365Maple Burl Effi gy Bowl
Sauk-Fox/Mesquikie, circa 1820
A bowl of startling quality. It is wafer thin with sophisticated lines and excellent color
and surface.
The effi gy here is an interpretation of a Manitou. The form is dynamic and almost
animate in nature, its arms or wings outstretched taking one into the belly of the
bowl. The head has a curious partially carved point to the center (it is not a hole,
stopping at 1/16” or so). It may represent the being’s eye or serve as a directional
device.
H. 4 in., D. 13 1/8 in.
$30,000-60,000
Provenance: Loras College, Dubuque, IA
Mr. & Mrs. Larry Frank, Arroyo Hondo, NM
Illustrated in: ART OF THE RED EARTH PEOPLE: THE MESQUAKIE OF IOWA,
plate 125.
Powers, Steven S., North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native American. Brooklyn,
NY 2005. p. 118
32 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
366Burl Effi gy Feast Bowl
Western Great Lakes / Prairie, fi rst half, 19th century
The line quality of this bowl is graceful and rhythmic. The elegant castellated sides
depict two opposing Manitou in reductive terms. Possibly the fi nest regional example
extant. Probably Western Great Lakes/Prairie, Sauk-Fox/Mesquakie, circa 1820
255
Bowls with similar effi gies on opposite sides of the rim were made as early as the 17th century. The head, neck, and shoulders of these anthropomorphized spirit fi gures are completed by the rim, which serves as a symbol of their out-stretched arms. By placing the fi gures on each end of the bowl the artist cre-ates a sense of dialogue between the two sacred elements.
– Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December, 2011
H. 5 1/8 in.; L. 15 7/8 in.
$25,000-50,000
Provenance: John Painter Collection
Literature: Illustrated in: A Window on the Past, Vol. II, 2003, p. 939
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 33
367
368
367Hudson River Valley Maple Burl Otter Cup
Probably Hudson River Valley, fi rst half 18th century (or earlier)
This Important handled cup is compelling. The execution of the cup’s handle in
the form of an otter is thoughtfully and successfully executed. As with all great
Woodlands carving “less is more” and the essence of the effi gy is conveyed with
minimal detail.
This cup appears to relate to two other cups of similar design. One pictured in “ The
Iroquois: A Study in Cultural Evolution” by Frank Gouldsmith Speck, p. 83, is also
carved from maple burl and has an open worked handle. The effi gy on the Speck
cup is hard to identify but is decisively zoomorphic in nature.
The other related example is in the Heye Collection of the National Museum of the
American Indian and the outlines of the cup and the handle are similar to this one
yet the handle lacks an effi gy. Documentation from the Heye notes the cup’s origin
as Scaticook of the Mahican tribes of the Hudson River Valley of New York and
Connecticut.
The openwork and the fl atness of the carving is reminiscent of carvings seen on 17th
century Iroquoian antler combs and relates to the Brams Collection important wolf
effi gy scoop (lot 368)
H. 4 1/4 in., L. 7 1/4 in., Diam. 5 3/16 in.
$10,000-15,000
Provenance: Charles de Volpi, Quebec, ONT
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial &
Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 107.
368Elm Burl Wolf Effi gy Scoop
Iroquois (Seneca), fi rst half 18th century (or earlier)
The fi neness of this carving is exceptional and its execution is nothing short of mas-
terful. The bowl of the scoop is uniformly carved to just 1/16 of an inch.
The effi gy is seen by following the rounded terminal of the handle, which is its
muzzle, then the eye ridge and then ears, followed by a slightly arched back and into
the tail (the thumb stop).
The open worked handle and ingenious thumb stop make it very comfortable in
hand. As is evidenced from the smooth wear around the chips to the bowl and the
fi ne patina, this scoop saw much use and despite the thinness of the bowl, it held up!
The wolf effi gy is slightly abstracted and relates to depictions of wolves as seen on
17th century Seneca antler combs (related renderings are seen on excavated exam-
ples at the Rochester Museum and Science Center).
The positioning and style of this effi gy carving relates to the important otter effi gy
cup in the Brams collection (lot 367).
L. 11 in.
$6,000-9,000
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial &
Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 174.
34 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
371Burl Bowl with Pierced Castellated Tab
Central-Western Great Lakes Woodlands (Sauk-Fox or Mesquakie), 18th century
Round shallow form with castellated tab handle with pierced hole in the center.
Complex dark surface. Wood is a wide-open grain similar to elm, but is possibly
Osage Orange. Old collection numbers on the bottom.
Together with a related bowl with remains of a pierced raised tabbed handle.
(2)
H. 4 in., Diam. 13 1/2 in.
$4,000-8,000
Provenance: Freeman’s Auction, Philadelphia, PA mid-1980’s
Other Notes: Collector’s number 1073 in black ink on bottom.
369Medium Ash Burl Bowl
Eastern Great Lakes, circa 1780
A simple bowl of exceptional form and surface. Called, “the perfect bowl” by both
Brams and Powers, this wide, shallow, round bowl is very thinly hewn and has a
complex surface.
H. 2 1/2 in., Diam. 8 1/2 in.
$4,000-8,000
370Massive Iroquois Ash Burl Bowl with Recessed Handles
Probably Mohawk, second half of 18th century
Hewn from an extraordinary specimen of wood. This massive yet graceful double
handled oval bowl has a vast body, which is supported by a well-balanced recessed
foot that gives the piece an elegant lift.
L. 27 1/2 in., W.17 3/4 in., H. 8 1/4 in.
$10,000-15,000
Provenance: Provenance: acquired in 1962 from a Vrooman descendent directly from
the Vrooman homestead in Schoharie, NY; private NY collection.
369
370
371
371
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 35
372Maple Beaver Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1760 (or earlier)
Beaver in upright position with arms and paws to its mouth eating; this carving is
powerful sculpture. The fi ne incised horizontal reed (platform) delineates the handle
from the platform. As with most successful Woodlands carvings, the carving is not
overly detailed but reduced to the essence. An important example.
L. 5 3/4 in.
$10,000-15,000
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 162.
373Large Reductive Beaver Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1820
Fine ladle of simplifi ed form with a large highly reductive beaver effi gy.
L. 11 1/2 in.
$1,200-1,800
374Two Reductive Beaver Effi gy Ladles, and One Reductive Bird Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1800-1820
The two large reductive ladles each relating to the other reductive and more devel-
oped beaver ladles in the Brams collection, the bird of good form, thinly hewn-nice
example.
(3)
L. 10 1/4 in. (tallest)
$1,000-2,000
372
373 375374
375Reductive Beaver Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Maple Great Lakes Woodlands
The arcs of the body and tail make for a strong form. The architecture of the overall
ladle is particularly elegant. The bowl is burl and the handle a curly grain. The ladle is
thinly carved and exhibits an ideal surface of a dry bowl with good edge wear and a
well polished and patinated handle and effi gy.
H. 10 in., W. 5 3/8 in., D. 4 1/2 in.
$1,200-2,200
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 167.
36 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
376
377
376 back view
377 back view
376Beaver Effi gy Ladle with Tail
Hudson River Valley Woodlands, circa fi rst half 18th century (or earlier)
This ladle relates to another early beaver effi gy ladle in the Brams collection
(Mohawk ladle with large scale beaver effi gy and tail on four tiered frieze). The bea-
ver effi gy here however is carved more sleekly and occupies the full handle, and it
too has a tail running down the backside of the handle. The bowl proportionally large
bowl is hewn very fi ne and thin. The whole has an exceptional surface.
Purportedly the initials, “I B” stand for John Bull (1721-1807) of Hampontonburgh,
Orange County, NY, who was the son of William Bull and Sarah Wells (see lot 322,
the Thompson family Human effi gy ladle, for more information). Bull likely acquired
the ladle in trade or as a gift. This is the only early ladle we have seen with branded
initials.
L. 7 5/8 in.
$6,000-9,000
377Beaver Effi gy Ladle with Large Frieze and Tail
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands (Mohawk, Iroquois), circa fi rst half 18th century
(or earlier)
This exceptionally strong ladle has a dramatically large-scale beaver atop a four-tiered
frieze with a well-defi ned tail running down the backside. It is very rare.
The scale of the effi gy in relation to the handle and bowl as well as the angle rela-
tionship of the bowl to handle is diagnostic of early-mid 17th century ladles (Prisch,
Aspects of Change in Seneca Iroquois Ladles AD 1600-1900, 1982). This is quite
possibly one of the earliest, non-excavated ladles extant.
Provenance: Originally purchased from a Poughkeepsie, NY auction in 1971.
L. 7 1/4 in.
$6,000-9,000
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 37
378
379 380379
378Elm Beaver Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780-1835
This otter effi gy gains its strength sculpturally from the seamless deep sweep off the
handle, up its body, and into the plane of its raised arms. Open carving between the
animals’ arms and head. Fine warm surface with edge wear from use, including chip
on left shoulder.
L. 9 1/8 in.
$6,000-9,000
Provenance: Andy Warhol Collection, lot 2514, Sotheby’s New York, 1988.
379Two Maple Reductive Beaver Effi gy Ladles
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, fi rst half 19th century
A very small ladle with a rich, highly complex dark surface, a thinly carved bowl and a
highly reductive beaver effi gy. The second, a ladle with a rich, highly complex surface
with a highly reductive beaver effi gy with delineated tail extending down the back.
(2)
The fi rst: L. 3 7/8 in.; the second: L. 7 in.
$1,500-2,500
380Very Diminutive Maple Burl Reductive Beaver Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, second half 18th century
Without the aid of reference to other beaver ladles in the Brams collection, it may
be diffi cult to interpret this ladle. However, the abstract carving seen here is clearly
a reductive interpretation of a beaver. The chip carved border that separates the
handle and the carving is a fi ne and rare detail. The bowl is carved remarkably thin.
Special note should be made of the rare small size of this ladle.
L. 3 1/8 in.
$4,000-6,000
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 163.
38 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
381
382 383
381
Otter Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, second half 18th century
A well-rendered openwork carved full bodied otter atop a platform with head
turned around. Ladle displays an excellent use history. Please note how the wear to
the right side of the handle has occured over time from use and made it more ergo-
nomic for daily use.
L. 10 1/2 in.
$4,000-8,000
Provenance: John Painter Collection
382
Otter Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780
The sideways orientation of this ladle is atypical. The otter is subtly rendered with an
ever so slender tail coming over the top of the handle and a sleek body joined with
its front legs which are joined to the back of the handle-the openwork around the
body creating an area to attach a thong.
Hewn from a choice specimen of tiger maple and blackened with heavily carbonized
smoke.
L. 5 11/16 in.
$4,000-6,000
383
Two Effi gy Ladles
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1820
The fi rst, an abstract fi gured maple effi gy ladle, likely in the form of two otters play-
ing. A nearly identical example (though without the chip carved detail) is in the
collection of Winterthur and pictured in Treasury of American Design and Antiques,
Hornung, p.478, fi g.1689.
The second, an abstract effi gy ladle (possibly in the form of a Manitou). The shaped
end carved in a simple, but engaging manner.
(2)
L . 9 11/16 in. (tallest)
$1,500-2,500
Provenance: For the second ladle, Andy Warhol Collection, Sotheby’s New York,
1988, Lot 2514
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 39
384
386 (pigment decorated bowl pictured)
385
387 387
384
Fissured Maple Gaming Dish
Early 19th century
Bowls (Gä-jih) as such were used for a traditional Woodlands game involving peach
pits (Gus-ka-eh). Of the few gaming bowls or dishes known, most have breaks with
early repairs, as a rule of the game was to slam the bowl upon a blanket to bounce
the peach pits.
A gaming dish of near identical form (also with breaks and repairs) is in the collec-
tion of the Smithsonian Institution, no. 81-2619. Another is illustrated in Lewis H.
Morgan on Iroquois Material Culture, Tooker, p. 193-this source also describes in full
the nature of game within the culture.
H. 2 3/4 in., W. 10 in.
$3,000-6,000
385
Extremely Diminutive Bundled Dish with Gaming Pieces
Possibly Ojibwa, fi rst half 19th century
Exceptionally small bowl with a well defi ned broad rim and a superbly carved base.
Together with a set of bone and shell buttons or gaming pieces-each with or without
red-pink color and incised markings.
Bundle bowls complete with gaming pieces are extremely rare.
A set of similar gaming pieces (Gus-ga-e-sa-tä) are illustrated in Lewis H. Morgan on
Iroquois Material Culture, Tooker, p. 192-this source also describes in full the nature
of game within the culture.
H. 1 7/8 in., W. 2 in.
$1,500-3,000
Provenance: Gaylord Torrence, Kansas City, MO
386
Two Round Bowls
The fi rst, Plains, 19th century, the deep bowl with beveled lower sides and well
defi ned foot. The exterior decorated with a red earth and black pigment. The sec-
ond small hewn ash burl bowl with broad rim, Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands,
1800-1825, thickly hewn with broad band comprising rim, possibly used as a gaming
dish.
(2)
Diam. 5 5/8 in.
See Kenoauctions.com for illustration of second bowl
$1,500-2,500
387
Iroquois Ash Burl Handled Burl Bowl and Related Ladle
18th century
The bowl even in its decimated condition – missing the handle and part of the upper
walls of the bowl on one end is in the form of a very early bowl – with high peaked
open demilune cut handles. The ladle displays a similar dry surface. The handle has a
chamfered neck.
(2)
Ladle L. 10 3/4 in. Bowl L. 16 1/2 in.
$2,000-3,000
40 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
391 392
388
389 (one bowl pictured) 390 (bowl with incised fi sh pictured)
388
Double Handled Elm Burl Bowl
Iroquois, 18th century
This bowl exhibits a graceful undulating rim which adds movement and interest to
the form. The rim of a typical Iroquoian double handled bowl dips down in between
the valley of the handles; here it sweeps upward.
H. 8 1/2 in., W. 18 1/2 in., L. 22 1/2 in.
$10,000-15,000
Provenance: Private, NY collection since 1958
389
Three Small Burl Bowls
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, 18th/fi rst half 19th cenury
The fi rst a tiny hewn elm burl bowl. This bowl is the smallest in the Brams collection
and was also the smallest in DeVere Card’s extensive collection. It is the likely the
smallest Woodlands bowl extant. (see photo above)
H. 1 1/16 in., L. 3 15/16 in.
The second is a very small, very thin maple burl bowl of irregular form with one wall
more straight than the others-having a tiny pierced hole near the rim (possibly for a
threaded thong).
The third is a small round ash burl bowl (exhibiting the tangential grain) of fi ne form
and surface.
(3)
For illustrations of all three bowls, please go to www. kenoauctions.com
$1,500-3,000
Provenance: DeVere Card, Hamilton, NY
Exhibitions: Munson-Williams-Proctor Institute; 1971
Illustrated in: (the small elm bowl) Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen:
Colonial & Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 138.
Card, DeVere, THE USE OF BURL IN AMERICA, p. 19, Plate XVIII.
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 41
393
394
390
Three Small Bowls
Great Lakes Woodlands, 18th/19th century
One small ash burl bowl with incised fi sh on the interior bottom, one early 18th c.
example with excellent surface and one elm burl, example of 19th century.
(3)
See Kenoauctions.com for illustration of all bowls
$500-1,000
391
Ash Burl Round Bowl with Deep Sides
Woodlands, probably New England., late-18th or early-19th century
A very fi ne bowl exhibiting a superb surface-a nutty brown, well patinated exterior
and a well-variegated dry interior with exceptional use history.
Diam. 13 7/6 in.
$2,000-4,000
392
Ash Burl Bowl
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1760-1780
This may be the most heavily lacerated bowl that we have seen in terms of usage; it
literally has thousands of knife marks to the interior basin and walls. These lacerations
are years old and create a most beautiful and sublime interior surface. One really gets
a sense of the life that this bowl led. It is proportionally deep and has a slight bean
shape.
Provenance: Bowl was purchased from a barn in Seawall, Ontario.
L. 13 5/8 in., W. 10 3/8 in., H. 4 3/8 in.
$2,000-3,000
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial &
Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 131.
393
Ash Burl Woodcock Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780-1820
This fi ne example has very sophisticated lines and transitional planes which are core
to Woodlands sculpture. Note the subtle transitions between the bowl, to the
handle, to the beak of the woodcock-all follow the same gently carved line.
Open work on ladles is uncommon; on burl ladles it is even more so because of the
unpredictable grain structure. The unpredictability is noted in the void on the upper
part of the bowl. This recess is part of the natural burl and not loss from a break.
L. 7 1/4 in.
$10,000-15,000
394
Human Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes, 18th / early 19th century
Carved from maple this, early example probably depicts a Woodlands native in pro-
fi le with coxcomb or braided hair.
Compositionally from a formal point of view please note how the relief (positive)
carved nubs of the reductive shoulders/arms balance the thong hole (negative space)
within the center of the head.
L. 6 1/2 in.
$6,000-9,000
42 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
395
396397
398
399
395
Headless Human Effi gy Ladle Sitting on
Stylistic Chair
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands,
second half 18th century
This is an elegant and rare ladle despite the losses
to the effi gy. A lanky headless fi gure sits on a highly
stylized “chair.” The “chair” may represent a chair, a
tree stump, or a large hand. The whole is simply and
beautifully rendered and has a modern feel to it (the
fi gure like the sculptor Elie Nadelman and the chair by
a modernist such as Gerrit T. Rietveld) The buttress
supporting the platform upon which the fi gure sits is
also unique.
H. 8 3/4 in., L. 7 3/4 in., W. 4 in.
$4,000-8,000
396
Human Effi gy Pipe
Eastern Great Lakes, fi rst half 19th century
The whole carved from maple with a large human
fi gure with turned head holding the pipe bowl. The
whole carbonized (blackened) from use, maintaining a
fi rst rate surface.
L. 3 1/2 in.
$1,500-2,500
397
Carved Pipe with Seated Figures
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, 19th century
A complex carving depicting a white-man making an
advance on a native woman (or visa versa) - she push-
ing and resisting. Given the period of the carving, the
subject likely had a greater meaning as well perhaps
that one should resist and fi ght the advances of all
white-men.
L. 4 in.
$1,500-2,500
398
Two Maple Ladles with Human Head Effi gies
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, 1820-1840
The smaller example with the simplistic head including
incised ears, delineated from the swept-back handle
and the larger with a large head, worn with minimal
features, the heel carved with stamp containing an
incised cross pattern within an oval. This pattern is
seen on a bird ladle formerly in the Brams collection
and one in the collection of the American Museum of
Natural History (cat #50.1/ 1545, collected by Tefft,
Erastus, 1910.)
(2)
L. 9 1/16 in. (tallest)
$1,200-1,800
399
Five Ladles
Great Lakes Woodlands, 18th / 19th century
Four small examples of varied form together with a
larger, well fi gured ash ladle of reductive human form.
This ladle appears to relate to a bowl in the collection
of the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research
Center (#986-Bwo-27) and pictured on the cover of,
Gifts of the Forest, 2000.
(5)
L. 8 3/8 in. (tallest)
$400-800
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 43
400
Dakota Blackfeet Maple Burl Bowl
First half 19th century
The Blackfoot native Black Hawk fought in the battle
against Lt. Colonel George Custer at the Battle of
Little Big Horn in 1876. He suffered a wound to the
head, survived and took on the name Wounded Head
(Nata-Opi). Wounded Head was also a signer of the
treaty at Standing Rock Agency, Dakota, October 11,
1876.
Early 20th century tag attached to bowl.
H. 3 3/8 in., L. 7 1/2 in., W. 7 1/4 in.
$2,500-4,500
401
Three Woodlands Belt Cups
19th century
The fi rst
Chip carved open handle and interrupted band, prob-
ably Maine or Eastern Canada. Likely made for per-
sonal use rather than trade.
The second
With chip carved border and carved foliate, heart, and
cornucopia motifs, probably Maine or Eastern Canada
The third
With an open slotted handle and likely carved for per-
sonal use rather than for trade
(3)
L. 7 in.; 4 2/8 in.; 4 3/4 in.
$800-1,200
400
401
403402
402 402
402
Two Bowls and a Burl Cup
The fi rst, a diminutive oblong shaped Sycamore footed
bowl
Eastern Great Lakes, circa 1800
Deep dish of elongated form-possibly used as a medi-
cine bowl-possibly part of a Midé bundle.
H. 1 3/4 in., L. 4 1/4 in., W. 2 1/4 in.
The second, a small elm burl bowl with peaked end
(boat form) Eastern Great Lakes, 1790-1830
Small bowl with fi ne balance thin sides and a strong,
ovoid shape coming to a peak at one side. Likely a
medicine bowl; uncommon.
H. 1 1/2 in., L. 4 in., W. 2 1/2 in.
The third, a burl cup, Western Great Lakes,
circa 1800-1820
A well-hewn cup with sharp and strong faceted planes
to the exterior. The interior is smooth and follows the
conical shape of the exterior. It fi ts very comfortably
and ergonomically into one’s hand. The exterior is
blackened and worn through on the high points. The
nature of the burl is very tight and complex, however
the species is undetermined. The black on the exterior
is possibly pigment.
H. 2 1/4 in., W. 4 1/4 in., D. 3 5/8 in.
(3)
$1,500-2,500
Provenance: Burl cup found in Minnesota
403
A Sycamore Oval Bowl
Central Great Lakes Woodlands, Potawatomie, circa
1800
Deeply proportioned bowl with a beaded edge.
Warm mellow, highly oxidized surface. With an early
label, “Pottawatomie Made From Sycamore.”
H. 3 in., L. 6 1/2 in.
$2,000-4,000
44 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
406
Ash Owl Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands,
late 18th / early 19th century
Small fi gured ash burl ladle well executed with a
balanced bowl leading to a handle with beaded perch
upon which the owl sits.
L. 5 3/8 in.
$3,000-6,000
407
Owl Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, fi rst half, 19th century
Well-balanced example with the owl divided between
the front and the back, the straight handle strongly
tapering into the owls belly. Very oblong bowl.
L. 4 1/2 in.
$1,500-2,500
404
Maple Reductive Owl Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, late 18th century
Another ladle exemplifying the importance of the ladle
library that Brams developed. Without the aid of the
other owl effi gy ladles, it would hard to “see” the owl
here. Beautifully rendered with a proportionally large
and thin hewn bowl and handle. The ‘tiger’ fi guring is
exceptional.
L. 6 1/2 in.
$3,000-6,000
405
Snow Owl Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, 18th century
Ladle with the early architecture of a wide, shallow
bowl, the handle with delineated perch upon which
the owl effi gy sits. Reductive body with a serrated face
simulating the look of feathers on a snow owl’s face.
L. 4 1/4 in.
$3,000-6,000
404 405
406 407
408
Large Ash Burl Bird Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands,
Second half 18th century
Large bird-of-prey commands its position atop a
slightly delineated perch-the bowl is refi ned and broad
at the same time-being a little heavier than typical. The
whole with a dark, richly patinated surface.
L. 8 3/8 in.
$3,000-5,000
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steve, S. North
American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native American.
Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 169.
409
Ash Burl Large Handled Bowl/Scoop in the
Form of Bird
Eastern Great Lakes, late 18th / early 19th century
Well fi gured ash burl bowl with canted sides with long
handle terminating in a bird’s head (possibly a heron) , the
head slightly cocked. While most Woodlands effi gy
ladles and bowls isolate the effi gy carving, the effi gy in
this instance is seen within the entire form. The head
leads to the long neck (handle) and into the
bowl -shaped body.
L. 13 in.
$4,000-6,000
410
Two Carved Woodlands Canes
First-half 19th century
The fi rst, with Otter Paw Holding a Clam Shell.
The otter and clam are meaningful symbols in the
Woodlands culture. The otter is seen sculpturally por-
trayed on effi gy ladles and clams were used for food
and shells themselves were often as spoons. The shell
was of course also used to make wampum.
L. 36 in.
The second, carved cane with fi st, Northeast
Woodlands, carved with the type of fi st one might
fi nd on a crooked knife with thumb positioned outside
the closed fi ngers.
L. 35 1/2 in. (2)
$800-1,200
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 45
408
410 (detail) 410 (detail)
409
411 (detail) 411 (detail) 411 (detail) 411 (detail)
411
A Speakers’s Staff and Three Canes Depicting Human Heads
19th century
The fi rst, a speaker’s staff
Eastern Great Lakes (Iroquois)
Expressively carved with a fl owing beard and with attention to the priest tonsure
cap and cassock: The speakers’ staff would be used in confrontations as an effi gy to
invoke power over the priest or white-man. The speaker would grip the staff around
the neck of the carving, symbolically choking or maintaining control of the engage-
ment. Small wrought nails for pupils.
L. 34 in.
second, a cane
depicting a man with hat
Woodlands, fi rst half 19th century
Woodlands carving of an acculturated Native or white man. Carving is direct and
expressive.
L. 34 3/4 in.
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 76.
third
Ash burl human head Manitou with later cane mounting, circa 1820
Very good example with soulful expression carved from a dense specimen of ash
burl. The inside of the man’s mouth retains red pigment.
L. 28 in.
fourth, a cane
with carved human head
Woodlands, possibly Delaware
The head carved with bulging eyes and well defi ned ears.
(4)
L. 33 1/4 in.
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 196.
$1,500-2,500
46 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
412
415
415414413
412
Ash Burl Handled Bowl with Reductive
Turtle Effi gy
New England/Hudson River Valley, circa 1800
When turned over the whole is read as a reductive
turtle; the bowl its’ carapace, the handle its’ extended
neck and the trefoil carved terminal its’ head.
This bowl has a carbonized interior, which is seen
three-quarters of the way up the interior basin. This
indicates burning from heated stones tossed into the
bowl to warm its contents (stew or medicine). A dis-
tinct red tone is infused into the wood within this area
as well (possibly from medicinal herbs and barks).
L. 18 1/8 in., diam. 12 1/2 in.
$4,000-8,000
413
Wooden Ball Club
Early Eastern Woodlands, circa 1680-1750
A rare ballclub of early architecture and size with a
ball-drop extending far off an angled handle. This style
club is famously illustrated in a portrait of Etow Oh
Koam, King of the River Nation, by John Verelst (1648
- 1734), who painted fi ve Iroquois chiefs to com-
memorate a visit the fi ve chiefs made to Queen Anne
in 1710 (see Smithsonian Institution no. NPG.74.23.)
L. 14 in.
$2,000-4,000
414
Pre-Contact Club or Celt
Great Lakes, probably 15th-16th century
Rare and possibly unique club in the form of a mono-
lithic axe or hafted celt. Hewn from one piece of old
growth pine. One may associate it with a ceremonial
mace and rank symbol due to the size and form-
though wear and left thumb and forefi nger holds
indicate that it may also have been used as a weapon.
The carved recess around the perimeter of the celt
is quite intimidating, in that, from a distance or at a
glance, it appears to be a stone celt in a wood haft.
A subtle, reductive dog effi gy appears to be carved
into the club. The extended or club portion is seen as
the dog’s muzzle and the haft is the dog’s head.
Found in 1998 in a pocket of anaerobic mud near
Grosse Pointe, Michigan. Subsequently, the wood is
extremely heavy (considering that it is pine) and is
partially fossilized with some mineralization occurring
in sections.
H: 11 3/4 in.
$2,000-4,000
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 47
416
417
415
Two Elm Burl Bowls
The fi rst, with double peaked ends
Eastern Great Lakes, 1765-1785
Desirable long, narrow shape with raised ends ter-
minating in tight peaks. The whole with well-rubbed
surface; having a strong burnish to the exterior. The
fact that the sides are extremely thin adds interest to
this example.
H. 3 in., L. 7 3/4 in., W. 4 1/4 in.
The second, boat form
Eastern Great Lakes, 1760-1780
Medium sized elm bowl with a shouldered end on
one side and the sides tapering to a slow peak
on the other.
H. 3 1/2 in., L. 10 1/2 in., W. 7 1/2 in.
$2,000-4,000
Provenance: Roger Bacon, 1982: sold Skinner Sept. 24, 1982, lot no. 82
416
Ojibwa Red Painted Elm Ceremonial Burl
Bowl
Eastern Great Lakes, mid-18th century
This is an exceptional boat shaped example with thin
walls peaked ends and tapered body. Thin and hewn
with the grace and balance of a master craftsman. The
exterior probably retains its original red paint. The
whole has a quiet, sublime quality to it-the delicacy of
the elegant form combined with the contrast of the
dark exterior against the light color of the interior.
L. 8 3/8 in.
$10,000-15,000
Interestingly an inclusion on the exterior appears to
have been fi lled at an early date with some type of
reddish sap.
417
Ash Burl Bowl with Peaked Ends
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1760-1780
This elegant bowl is very thinly hewn and had a well-
used life. The exterior maintains traces of a green-
oxide paint. The bowl has cracks and chips to one
side. The longest crack is 10 1/2 in. long.
Note should be made to how masterfully the repairs
are executed. Forged nails were actually driven side-
ways into the thin walls to mend the split.
L. 13 7/8 in.
$3,000-5,000
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American
Burl Treen: Colonial & Native American, Brooklyn, NY,
2005, p. 125
48 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
418
418
Very Large Ash Burl Effi gy Ladle with Single Manitou Eye
Woodlands, fi rst-half 18th century
The elongated disc and semi-circular cutout is interpreted as being the eye of
a Manitou. This ladle exhibits a benchmark for surface, color and patination.
Though catalogued as early 18th century, this ladle may very well be mid-17th
century.
L. 11 1/2 in.
$10,000-15,000
Illustrated and discussed in Powers, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial & Native
American, Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 161.
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 49
419
420
419
Manitou Effi gy Cup or Scoop
Central-Western Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1800
The outsized cup or scoop displays a large Manitou
effi gy with overlapping references to the being’s eye,
head and horns. Hewn from rock maple, the cup/
scoop is masterfully carved with a thinly hewn bowl
and dramatic rendering of the Manitou effi gy.
See, Powers, The Evolution of the Water Manitou as Seen Through Its’ Presence In Woodlands Bowls & Ladles, Good Wood Volume 1, 2008 and Maurer GREAT LAKES INDIAN ART, Representational and Symbolic Forms in Great Lakes-Area Wooden Sculpture, 1989
L. 8 in.
$10,000-20,000
420
Effi gy Bowl with Two Lobes
Pawnee, 1840-1860
Rare small effi gy bowl with two pierced rounded
lobes extending from one side of the rim representing
a Manitou.
A bowl of very similar form is in the collection of the
Detroit Institute of Arts. (81.820)
H. 1 1/8 in., W. 4 3/4 in.
$3,000-6,000
Provenance: William Samaha, Milan Ohio
Literature: See Maurer, Evan, “Representational
and Symbolic Forms in Great Lakes-Area Wooden
Sculpture, Great Lakes Indian Art”, p.37.
50 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
421
424423422
421
Burl Ladle with Scroll and Shell Carving
New England or Hudson River Valley Woodlands, 1780-1820
Though technically not an effi gy ladle, this ladle is carved with same degree of con-
sideration. The scrolled terminal and the unusual reed-carved or perhaps shell-carved
knee are unique. A similar scroll carving is seen on a bowl in the possession of
Nathan Liverant & Son Antiques of Colchester, Connecticut and illustrated in THE
USE OF BURL IN AMERICA, pl. XVI. The scroll is reminiscent of Abenaki carved
crooked knives and also to the scroll carving one might see on the ears of a Fan-back
colonial Windsor chair.
L. 7 7/8 in.
$4,000-6,000
Literature: Illustrated in: Powers, Steven, S. North American Burl Treen: Colonial &
Native American. Brooklyn, NY, 2005, p. 160.
422
Kneeling Fawn Effi gy Ladle
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1780
Beautiful small ladle with a quiet sophistication. Balanced carving with fi ne details to
the waisted handle.
L. 5 1/16 in.
$3,000-6,000
423
Highly Reductive Buffalo Ladle
Western-Central Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1800-1820
Here again we can see how the Native artisans are taking a familiar form and reduc-
ing it to blocked masses – the artisan has reduced the form to the essence of his
subject.
L. 4 7/8 in.
$3,000-5,000
424
Maple Ladle with Chip Carved Panel on Handle
Eastern Woodlands, possibly New England, circa 1740
This early ladle is carved with a chip carved panel at the top of the handle with a zig-
zag border framing a center set diamond shape with another diamond carved below
the panel. A large circle is carved incised in the handle near the bowl. The carving
style appears to be more Algonquin than Iroquoian in style and is possibly Eastern
Seaboard or New England in origin.
A related ladle is in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (cat no.
10.125.588 g).
L. 5 5/16 in.
$1,500-3,000
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 51
425
426 427
425
Human Effi gy Ladle Smoking Bear Effi gy Pipe
Western Great Lakes Woodlands (Cree), circa 1820
Skillfully hewn with a thin delineated bowl, this effi gy ladle combines two Woodlands
traditions in one; effi gy ladle and pipe carving. The large openwork carved fi gure is
crouching or climbing up the top-back of the handle and is smoking from a bear
effi gy pipe that bridges between the fi gure and the top of the handle. This is an
unusual and compelling example.
The majority of Woodlands/Great Lakes effi gy ladles feature a single representational element carved at the end of the handle. These fi gures are iconic forms that sit as majestic miniatures proclaiming a personal or clan relationship of the owner.
These two ladles (see lot 312, Human and Bear Effi gy Ladle) are unusual in that they represent more than one fi gure in the case of the human and the bear, or one fi gure interacting with an object, such as the man smoking a bear effi gy pipe. In many cultural areas of Native America the bear is especially associated with healing and medicine. The bear and the human imply a nar-rative, a story that would have been understood by all who saw it. The use of tobacco and the smoking pipe are sacred ritual acts in Native American societ-ies. So the representation of a man in the act of smoking was a familiar one and would have engaged the user and the viewer in another meaningful narrative.
– Evan M. Maurer, Director Emeritus, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, December, 2011, also referring to lot (#312)
H. 8 1/4 in., L. 7 in., W. 3 1/2 in.
$5,000-10,000
426
Two Ash Burl Flasks Together with a Maple Burl Box
18th century (box)
The circular fl ask with screw off top may possibly be Woodlands made (Native Americans were interacting with Christian Missionaries from fi rst contact)-the bottom inscribed IHS (Iesus Hominum Salvator), a Rare Ash Burl Powder Flask, and an early 18th century maple burl vessel (missing cover) with note, partially legible, ‘used by Grandmother as… body powder…’ (3)
H. 7 1/8 in. (tallest)
$1,200-1,800
427
Group of Four Small Burl Bowls
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, fi rst half of 19th century
The larger thinly hewn from ash burl with ashen grey color, the next ash burl with a
dark nutty color with a highly patinated surface (ex. Garrett), the next also ash with a
few early fi lls to the bottom and the smallest of maple with a beaded rim and canted
sides.
Diam. 5 1/8 in. (largest) (4)
$1,500-2,500
Provenance: Clark and Mary Garrett, Fairhaven, OH
52 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
430
Two Elm Burl Bowls with Deep Sides
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, probably mid-18th century
The fi rst of early oval bowl of deep proportions and subtle refi ned foot.
H. 3 1/4 in., L. 7 7/8 in., W. 6 in.
The second of irregular shape with deep, nearly straight sides
H. 2 3/4 in., L. 6 3/4 in., W. 5 in. (2)
$1,000-2,000
431
Group of Nine Large Assorted Ladles and Mush Paddles
Great Lakes Woodlands, 19th century
Five ladles of large size, two with openwork carved demilunes and 4 mush or johnny
cake paddles, two with ball-in-cage carving and one with shaped handle with chip
carved decoration fi lled with red and green wax.
L. 25 in. (tallest) (9)
$800-1,200
428
Human Effi gy Staff
Delaware, circa 1800
A powerful and rare example of an Algonquian effi gy staff. Staffs as such would be
held as speakers staffs or held by sachems as status symbols.
H. 25 1/2 in.
$3,000-5,000
429
Tiger Maple Dance Wand in the Form of a Snake
Possibly Santee Sioux, fi rst-half of 19th century
A very fi ne and rare slender snake dance wand carved from a beautiful specimen of
tiger maple with trade bead eyes (one is missing).
L. 25 1/4 in.
$1,000-1,500
428 429
429 (detail)
430 (one bowl pictured) 431
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 53
432
An Assorted Group of Twenty-One Spoons and Scoops
Woodlands, Plains, Northwest Coast and California, 1780-1880
Mostly carved from wood in various designs, a few of possible New England
Algonquian origin, others of horn, bone and antler. (21)
$800-1,200
433
Shoshone Mortar and Ash Burl Hewn Mortar
Shoshone mortar
Plains, circa 1840-1860
The base of short conical shape with the vessel area extending into an inverted cone.
The whole with a complex, untouched surface.
H. 7 3/8 in., W. 4 in.
Ash burl hewn mortar
Eastern Great Lakes Woodlands, circa 1760
Native hewn mortars are scarce. We cannot recall seeing another hewn mortar in
ash burl. This work vessel has an exceptional surface with a rich burnish to the top
rim and interior from years and years of continued use.
H. 6 3/4 in., W. 5 15/16 in. (2)
$400-800
434
An Assorted Group of Thirty-Four “Study Ladles”
Woodlands, 1780-1880
Consisting of a wide range forms illustrating abstract and reductive forms and devices common to the Woodlands carvers vernacular. (34)
L. 16 3/4 in. (tallest)
$2,500-5,000
435
A Group of Twenty-Eight Assorted Ladles, Including a Large Ash
Burl, Manitou Effi gy Ladle, a Bird Effi gy Ladle
Great Lakes Woodlands, 1780-1880
Consisting of a wide range forms illustrating abstract and reductive forms and
devices common to the Woodlands carvers vernacular. Including a bird effi gy ladle,
a very large ash burl ladle, and an ash burl ladle with deep bowl (illustrated in North
American Burl Treen, p. 178, and poss. 17th century). (2)
$3,500-5,000
End of Sale
433
435
432
434
Bidding Increments The auctioneer will commence the bidding at any level and in increments con-sidered appropriate. Bids will be sought in increments selected by the auction-eer who will have the absolute discretion to select any increments for any lot (and the discretion to vary the increments in the course of the bidding for any lot). However, generally speaking, the increments will depend upon the low estimate for the lot. Thus for example, for lots having a low estimate below $1,000, bids will be sought at increments of $50. The normal pattern for bid-ding increments will be as follows:
Low Estimate Increments< 999 $50s$1,000 – 1,999 $100s$2,000 – 4,999 $250s$5,000 – 9,999 $500s$10,000 – 29,999 $1,000s$30,000 – 49,999 $2,500s$50,000 – 99,999 $5,000s> $100,000 at auctioneer’s discretion
These increments may vary during the course of the auction at the discretion of the auctioneer.
Estimates Pre-sale estimates are provided to encourage competitive bidding. These esti-mates may not be relied upon as any predictions of the selling price and may not be considered to be any opinion or representation regarding the value of the property. Keno Auctions shall not be responsible or liable for any differ-ence between a pre-sale estimate and the actual selling price for any lot.
Reserves Unless otherwise indicated, all lots are offered subject to a reserve, which is a confi dential minimum price set by the seller below which the lot will be not be sold. The reserve will not exceed a given low pre-sale estimate at the time of the auction. Regardless of whether there is a reserve, the auctioneer may reject any bid and withdraw any lot for any reason. In order comply with the seller’s reserve on any lot, the auctioneer may open bidding by placing a bid on behalf of the seller. The auctioneer may bid further on behalf of the seller (i.e. a bid “from the book” held by the auctioneer) up to the amount of the reserve by placing consecutive bids or by placing bids in response to other bidders. If a lot is not sold, the auctioneer will announce that fact (normally by stating that the lot has been “unsold” or “passed”).
Property of Keno Auctions / Guarantees Should Keno Auctions own any lot in whole or in part or have a fi nancial inter-est in any lot equivalent to an ownership interest, the catalogue will clearly iden-tify any such property as the Property of Keno Auctions. From time to time, a lot may be offered for which a guaranteed minimum price or an advance secured by the consigned property has been given to the seller. Such property will be identifi ed in the catalogue with the symbol * next to the lot number.
AFTER THE SALE
Successful BidsKeno Auctions is not able to notify successful absentee bidders. While invoices are sent out by mail after the auction we do not accept responsibility for notifying you of the result of your bid. Buyers are requested to contact us by telephone or in person as soon as possible after the sale to obtain details of the outcome of their bids to avoid incurring unnecessary handling charges.
Buyer’s Premium A buyer’s premium will be added to the hammer price of each lot and is pay-able as part of the total purchase price (comprising the hammer price, buyer’s premium and any applicable taxes). The buyer’s premium is 24% of the hammer price.
Sales TaxUnless exempted by applicable law, all purchases are subject to the 8.375% sales tax of the City and State of New York. Any buyer claiming exemption from sales tax must have the appropriate documentation on fi le with Keno Auctions prior to the release of the property.
Conditions of SaleParticipation in this auction is subject to and governed by the following contrac-tual terms. Each prospective buyer is deemed to have reviewed, understood and accepted these conditions of sale and participation in the auction in any manner (in person, by telephone, by written bid or on-line) will constitute an acceptance of these conditions of sale by the participant.
BEFORE THE SALECondition Every item offered for sale will be sold subject to the actual condition of the property at the time of the sale (generally referred to as “as is”). Prospective buyers are permitted and strongly encouraged to thoroughly examine any prop-erty before the auction with the understanding that there is no representation or warranty of any kind concerning the condition or any of the physical aspects of any items offered for sale. Catalogue descriptions or verbal statements are offered as opinion and shall not constitute a representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any nature whatsoever.
Registration before Bidding Prospective buyers who wish to bid in the saleroom can register online in advance of the sale, or can come to the saleroom approximately 30 minutes before the start of the sale to register in person. A prospective buyer must complete and sign a registration form and provide identifi cation (possibly includ-ing a check acceptance form) before bidding.
Absentee Bidding Reasonable efforts will be used to carry out written bids delivered to us before the sale for the convenience of prospective purchasers who are not present at the auction in person, by an agent or by telephone. If written bids for identi-cal amounts are submitted for the same lot and are the highest bids on this lot at the auction, the property will be sold to the person whose written bid was received and accepted fi rst. Execution of written bids is a free service under-taken subject to other commitments at the time of the sale and there shall be no liability for failing to execute any written bid or for errors and omissions in connection with any written bid.
Telephone Bidding Telephone bids will be accepted on lots with a low estimate of more than $2,500, no later than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the commencement of the sale and only if capacity allows. Arrangements to bid in languages other than English must be made well in advance of the sale. We will use reasonable efforts to contact prospective purchasers to enable them to participate in the bidding by telephone as a free service, however there will be no liability for any failure or for any errors or omissions in connection with telephone bidding.
Online BiddingPlease register for online bidding at Artfact.com. Reasonable efforts will be exerted to place on-line bids in the saleroom. However there will be no liabil-ity for any failure or error in the placement of such bids.
AT THE SALE
Terms of Bidding The auctioneer has the absolute and sole discretion to refuse any bid and to advance the bidding in any manner. The auctioneer also has the right to with-draw any lot, and in the case of error and dispute (whether during or after the sale) to determine the successful bidder, to continue the bidding, to cancel the sale or to reoffer and resell the property. The highest bidder acknowledged by the auctioneer will be the purchaser. In the case of a tie bid, the winning bid-der will be determined at the sole discretion of the auctioneer. In the event of a dispute between bidders, the auctioneer has fi nal discretion to determine the successful bidder or to reoffer the lot in dispute. If any dispute arises after the sale, the sale record of the auctioneer is conclusive.
Participation in the auction may be disallowed for any reason. A bid is an offer to purchase and by making a successful bid, a bidder is accepting personal liabil-ity to pay the purchase price, plus the buyer’s premium, all applicable taxes and all other applicable charges.
54 Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com
In the event that the property is removed from the auction premises by Keno Auctions, the buyer will be charged for 120% of the actual packing and shipping cost incurred in transporting the property and a daily storage charge of 1.5% of the purchase price of the property (commencing on the day following the completion of the auction). At the option of Keno Auctions the property may be transferred to and stored at a bonded warehouse and the buyer agrees to pay all the transfer and storage expenses and accepts all risks of loss or damage. Keno Auctions will only release the items after payment in full has been made of transportation, administration, handling, insurance any other costs incurred, together with all other amounts due to us.
Warranty Except as specifi cally described in this particular condition, Keno Auctions makes no representation or warranty of any kind as to the accuracy of any description of any lot and any information regarding any subject including quality, authentic-ity, medium, size, date, importance, rarity, provenance or historical relevance. Any statements made in the catalogue or at the sale or in any invoice or in any other writing shall not be deemed or constitute any warranty, representation, statement of fact or assumption of liability. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Keno Auctions will warrant the accuracy of any statement or information set forth in BOLD type in the catalogue description of the lot, unless clearly and conspicuously modifi ed prior to the bidding on the applicable lot. This warranty regarding the information in bold type shall exist for a period of fi ve (5) years from the date of the auction and is given solely to and strictly for the benefi t of the original purchaser of record at the auction. It may not be transferred to any third party. Furthermore, the exclusive remedy of the original buyer in the event of any inaccuracy not otherwise excluded herein shall be a refund of the hammer price and buyer’s premium actually paid by the buyer for the lot at the time of the sale. Keno Auctions and its consignor shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages incurred or claimed under this warranty.
The warranty does not apply if: (i) a written claim supported by a written report by a recognized expert in the applicable fi eld is not delivered by the original buyer to Keno Auctions before the expiration of fi ve (5) years from the date of the sale; or (ii) the catalogue description was consistent with the opinion(s) of generally accepted scholar(s) and/or expert(s) at the date of the sale; or (iii) the only method of establishing any inaccuracy in the warranted informa-tion is by means or processes not generally available or accepted at the time of the auction sale or by means and processes at the time of the auction sale that could have caused damage to the lot or could have caused loss of value to the lot; or (iv) there has been no material loss in value of the lot from its value had it been in accordance with its description in the Bold type; or (v) the property is not returned to Keno Auctions in the same condition as on the date of the auction sale.
Governing Law These Conditions of Sale and the rights and obligations of all participants here-under, shall be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. The buyer and any agent for the buyer shall be deemed to have consented to the jurisdiction of the state courts of, and the federal courts sitting in, the State of New York.
Notice: Regarding jewelry, all weights and dimensions are approximate only. It is strongly recommended that you bring your own expert to examine any prop-erty prior to the auction. Regarding colored stones: Historically colored stones have been enhanced or treated to improve their appearance. It is widely believed that these treatments are permanent; buyers should assume that treatments may not be permanent and stones may require additional care over time. These treatments have been accepted by the jewelry trade. Keno Auctions, its employees, or representatives make no opinions or warran-ties regarding these enhancements/ treatments. All Jewelry is sold as is with no representations of enhancements, treatments or assumption of liability is assumed. This includes all weights, measurements, carats and clarity.
PaymentBuyers are expected to pay the full amount due (comprising the hammer price, the buyer’s premium and any applicable taxes) the day of the auction. Please note that Keno Auctions will not accept payments for purchased lots from any party other than the registered buyer.
Lots purchased may be paid for in the following ways:
(i) bank checks (ii) checks (iii) cash (up to $7,500)(iv) money orders (up to $7,500)(v) travelers checks (up to $7,500)(vi) Pay Pal (up to $10,000)
Bank checks and personal checks should be made payable to Keno Auctions. Checks must be drawn on a US bank and payable in US dollars. In order to process your payment effi ciently, please quote sale number, invoice number and client number with all transactions. Buyers not known to us who wish to write a check must complete a bidder registration form and check acceptance form no later than two business days preceding the auction.
Remedies for Non Payment If a buyer fails to make payment in full in good cleared funds, Keno Auctions shall be entitled in its absolute discretion to exercise anyone or more of the fol-lowing rights or remedies (in addition to asserting any other rights or remedies available by law):
(i) to charge interest at a rate of 1.5% per month;(ii) to charge $50 for any dishonored check; (iii) to hold the defaulting buyer liable for the total amount due and to com-mence legal proceedings for its recovery together with interest, legal fees and costs to the fullest extent permitted under applicable law; (iv) to cancel the sale; (v) to resell the property publicly or privately on any terms; (vi) to pay the seller an amount up to the net proceeds payable in respect of the amount bid by the defaulting buyer; (vii) where several amount are owed by the buyer in respect of different pur-chases, to apply any amount paid to discharge any amount owed in respect of any particular transaction, whether or not the buyer so directs; (viii) to reject at any future auction any bids made by or on behalf of the buyer or to obtain a deposit from the buyer before accepting any bids; (ix) to exercise all the rights and remedies of a person holding security over any property in our possession owned by the buyer, whether by way of pledge, security interest or in any other way, to the fullest extent permitted by the law of the place where such property is located and in this regard the buyer will be deemed to have granted such security to Keno Auctions which may retain such property as collateral security for such buyer’s obligations; (x) to take such other action as may be deemed necessary or appropriate. If the property is resold as described above, the defaulting buyer shall be liable for payment of any defi ciency between the total amount originally due and the price obtained upon resale as well as all costs, expenses, damages, legal fees and commissions and premiums of whatever kind associated with both sales or oth-erwise arising from the default. If any amount is paid to the seller as described above, the buyer acknowledges that Keno Auctions shall have all the rights of the seller, however arising, to pursue the buyer for such amount.
Collection of PurchasesWe shall be entitled to retain items sold until all amounts due to us have been received in full in good cleared funds or until the buyer has satisfi ed such other terms as we, in our sole discretion, shall require.
Packing, Handling, and ShippingThe removal of purchased property is entirely the responsibility of the buyer. Accordingly, packing, handling and shipping arrangements for any purchased lot is at the entire risk and cost of the buyer. Where we may suggest other handlers, packers or carriers if so requested, we do not accept responsibility or liability for their acts or omissions.
Failure to Collect Purchases Where purchases are not collected from the auction premises, whether or not payment has been made, Keno Auctions will remove and store such property in any manner and by any means that it deems appropriate. Keno Auctions will not be responsible or liable for any damage caused as a direct or indirect result of the removal and storage of such property.
Additional Information and Condition Reports at Kenoauctions.com 55
127 East 69th Street New York, NY 10021
+1 212 734 2381 Kenoauctions.com