Eastern Long Island Indigenous effigy pot

Eastern Long Island Indigenous effigy pot

This unique vessel is made of shell-tempered clay and features two human-form effigies on the shoulder. The exterior is decorated with cordmarking and four shell-stamped diamond designs and the interior is heavily channeled. The pot was discovered in what is known today as Three Mile Harbor, Suffolk County. The area was a Montaukett settlement important for hunting, fishing, and camping.

Unknown Indigenous maker

Collection of the Southold Indian Museum. Recovered in the early 20th century by Edward S. Vail and Roy Latham (1881–1979). 

Unfortunately, the precise context in which this pot was discovered was not documented, nor were Shinnecock, Unkechaug, Montaukett, and other Indigenous peoples properly consulted at the time it was uncovered.

Late Woodland (A.D. 900–1650)

Southold Indian Museum

Shell-tempered clay. 18 x 15 x 17 in.