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War Club

1800–1820
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
The precisely rendered carvings on this club reference both the visionary experience and the war record of its owner. Rubbed with red and black pigment, they depict mythic powers, a rosette, and stylized human figures. Featured are a Thunderbird and a long-tailed animal—possibly an Underwater Panther. Such weapons resemble a rifle’s stock and are often called gunstock clubs.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: War Club
  • Date: 1800–1820
  • Geography: United States, Iowa
  • Culture: Possibly Iowa
  • Medium: Wood (maple), iron, pigment
  • Dimensions: Length: 24 3/4 in. (62.9 cm)
  • Classification: Wood-Implements
  • Credit Line: Collection of John and Marva Warnock
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing