This is an exceptional circa 1860-1870 Presentation Grade pipe tomahawk with large, beautifully beaded drop from the Plains Native American Indians. The piece is likely from the Cheyenne in origin and is truly a masterpiece of American Indian Art, and likely one of the finer tomahawks we have offered for public sale. Provenance: Purchased from Christies American Indian Art Auctions in New York in the 1970’s for $9,000 with the original Christies Auction tag still attached, bought directly from the auction house by Cyrus Eaton of London, England after the seller’s reserve was not met in the public sale. The piece features a blacksmith hand-forged head with tall vase like pipe bowl having file molded rings, forged chevrons and a slight rear-facing spur. The head is secured to the original haft with a thick leather gasket and brass tacks at the oval eyelet hole. There are unusual “X” engraving stamps on the top right side of the blade that appear to be file marks or possibly the makers touchmark / hallmark. The hardwood haft handle appears to be walnut and has artful pewter inlaid bands in a banded with diamond or chevron pattern and the haft is further adorned with bands of old brass trade tacks. The haft also shows remnants of old hot file brandings and a nice deep, shiny chocolate patina with minor nicks and wear from honest age and use. Below the gripping area is a pierced hole which holds the Indian tanned hide drop being of a nice large size with long frilly Indian hide fringe and beadwork in the typical geometric Cheyenne color and designs of the period. The drop is tied on with old buckskin lacing and has old red stroud cloth on the back side. The beadwork is all glass trade seed cen period correct 19th Century beads in colors of greasy yellow, cobalt, medium blue, chalk white, and red white hearts. These fancier American Indian Presentation Pipe Tomahawks or Presentation Grade examples were typically given to Chief’s and other tribal delegates / dignitaries at treaty signings and other prominent events. This example shows unbelievably high craftsmanship and beautiful art appeal being overall well preserved. Provenance: Found to be an authentic original example and sold by Christies Auction House in the 1970’s for $9,000 to Cyrus Eaton of London, England where it has been since in his ex-collection with the original Christie's tag still attached. The head measures 10 inches in length by 3 ½ inches wide across the bottom edge of the blade. The drop is an additional 22 inches in length.