Woodlands, Deptford culture. <em>Effigy Plummet, Form of Roseate Spoonbill</em>, 200–500 C.E. Stone, 4 x 3 1/2 in. (10 x 9 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Mrs. William B. Parker, 64.211.2. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: , 64.211.2_64.211.1_64.211.3_PS9.jpg)

Effigy Plummet, Form of Roseate Spoonbill

Artist:Woodlands, Deptford culture

Medium: Stone

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:200–500 C.E.

Dimensions: 4 x 3 1/2 in. (10 x 9 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 64.211.2

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

Catalogue Description:
Plummet in the form of the carved head of a bird. The feathers are indicated sweeping around the neck. The top knot is perhaps characteristic of the bird’s species. The end is tapered possibly for tying on a cord for suspension. The end is tapered possibly for tying on a cord for suspension. Suggested uses for these types of plummets are: weights to be used in weaving, sinkers for fishing, personal talismans or ornamental pendants suspended from the neck or waist either by the elite class or by commoners for dance performance display. 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