Pen Graves (Pomo). <em>Sling for Killing Marsh Hens or Ducks</em>, ca. 1906. Tule, Indian hemp, 3 3/4 x 1 1/4 x 1 1/4 in. (9.5 x 3.2 x 3.2 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Museum Expedition 1906, Museum Collection Fund, 06.331.8213. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: , 06.331.8213_08.491.8612_08.491.8581.jpg)

Sling for Killing Marsh Hens or Ducks

Artist:Pen Graves

Medium: Tule, Indian hemp

Dates:ca. 1906

Dimensions: 3 3/4 x 1 1/4 x 1 1/4 in. (9.5 x 3.2 x 3.2 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 06.331.8213

Image: 06.331.8213_08.491.8612_08.491.8581.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
This set, made from materials found and growing around Clear Lake was used by hunters in balsa boats for killing waterfowl. The birds would have been secured by throwing stones with this type of sling or snared. The basket with the clay balls was commissioned by Stewart Culin. Almost all of these utility baskets are similar to this, fairly coarse and quickly woven. The basket is filled with shredded tule and the balls are laid out on this when stored in the canoe. While the balls are not fired in a kiln there is some plant matter mixed with the clay and they are sun baked. See also 08.491.8581.

Brooklyn Museum