Included in this lot is a Collection of Mississippian Style Carved Bird Effigy Soapstone Pipes (3). These are unique and intricately designed ceremonial pipes, carved in the appearance of birds. Soapstone (also known as steatite) effigy carved pipes had been used by Native Americans since the Hopewell tradition, also called the Hopewell culture and Hopewellian exchange; the network of precontact Native American cultures that flourished in settlements along rivers in the northeastern and midwestern Eastern Woodlands from 100 BCE to 500 BCE. The Mississippian culture were collections of Native American societies that flourished in what is now the Midwestern, Eastern, and Southeastern United. Two of the pipes resemble ducks, the greyish black one an owl. Along with the heads, etched feet, feathers and beaks have intricate details. All three have large top bowls on the backs of the birds. The Bird Effigy Soapstone pipes are in good overall condition, wear noted from age and handling. Smallest measures 3"W x 6.75"L x 3.75"H, middle is 2.5"W x 7.5"L x 3.25"H, and largest is 2.5"W x 8"L x 3.75"H. Combined weight is 6lb, 4oz.