Sioux. <em>War Club</em>, early 19th century. Wood, metal, cotton cord, 29 1/4 x 14 1/4 x 5/8 in. (74.3 x 36.2 x 1.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Henry L. Batterman Fund and the Frank Sherman Benson Fund, 50.67.67. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: , 50.67.67_50.67.71_PS1.jpg)

War Club

Artist:Sioux

Medium: Wood, metal, cotton cord

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:early 19th century

Dimensions: 29 1/4 x 14 1/4 x 5/8 in. (74.3 x 36.2 x 1.6 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 50.67.67

Image: 50.67.67_50.67.71_PS1.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
Carved wood war club with an attached metal blade. A twisted cotton cord is attached to the handle. The object's decoration is done by chip carving and incising. Fourteen headless figures are shown on one side of the club and an Indian head is etched onto the metal blade. Possible explanation: The designs cut into the end of the club in rows of triangular shapes represent tipis. Probably, the scene depicted is a recounting of the exploits of the owner of the club. The figure on the end holds a feathered lance or staff, possibly a medicine man. The others, all male that are facing another single male, are men that he touched (coup counting) or killed.

Brooklyn Museum