Wampanoag Bowl
Bowl attributed to the Wampanoag
Elm burl, 1655-1675
17.8 cm (height) x 36.5 cm (width) x 33.3 cm (depth)
Inscribed: A Trophy from the Wigwam of King Philip When he was Slain in 1676 by Richard. Presented, by Elezr Richard, his Grandson
Traditionally known as "King Philip's Samp Bowl," this carved elm burl is a work of Algonquian craftmanship. Samp, or nasaump, the porridge made from ground Indian corn, was served in such bowls, which were carved from hardwood knots or burls using crude flints, scrapers, and stone adze blades. It is one of seven known Algonquian bowls in existence, all monumental in size with ornamental handles depicting animal heads. Purchased for the MHS in 1804, it is believed the bowl once belonged to Metacom, or King Philip, the Wampanoag chief who united the fractious New England tribes against the expanding population of colonists. War broke out in June 1675, but Philip's plans for a Native American nation were thwarted. When the war ended a year later, there was almost complete extermination of Native Americans in New England.
See this object in detail
permalink