Woodlands, Deptford culture. <em>Effigy Plummet, In Shape of Bird's Head</em>, 200–500 C.E. Stone, 3 3/4 x 3 1/2 in. (9.5 x 9 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Mrs. William B. Parker, 64.211.3. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: , 64.211.2_64.211.1_64.211.3_PS9.jpg)

Effigy Plummet, In Shape of Bird's Head

Artist:Woodlands, Deptford culture

Medium: Stone

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:200–500 C.E.

Dimensions: 3 3/4 x 3 1/2 in. (9.5 x 9 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 64.211.3

Image: 64.211.2_64.211.1_64.211.3_PS9.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
Plummet in the form of a carved bird head. The end is tapered possibly for tying on a cord for suspension. Some uses for these types of plummets are: weights to be used in weaving, sinkers for fishing, personal talismans or ornaments. This plummet is deeply carved head of a bird. The feathers are indicated sweeping around the neck. The eyes are perhaps characteristic of the bird’s species. The end is tapered possibly for tying on a cord for suspension. There is an early sketch of several dancers wearing such plummets dangling from their waists entertaining what appear to be elite people. Hundreds of these plummets have been found mostly just tapered so these are especially fine as carved to represent local fauna.

Brooklyn Museum