Preserving the Past - Ensuring a Future
Bright Star Program
I. Tracking, monitoring, and cataloging culturally and historically significant objects related to the Mississippian Era that have been or may be for sale on the open and black markets
There are many culturally and historically significant objects in museums. There are also some with native people themselves. However, there are many more in private collections across the globe. Many of these items find their way to legal auctions on the open market or are exchanged between collectors. Most have never been and may never be seen, much less returned or donated to be properly preserved.
Many of these sales and exchanges are legal activities. However, selling Native American artifacts can be a complex issue, and there are laws and regulations in place to protect such artifacts. In addition, there are ethical considerations regarding the sale of such items that should be taken into account.
Some auction houses have been involved in controversies over the sale of Native American artifacts, and it is important to do your own research and exercise caution when purchasing such items. It is recommended that you consult with experts in the field to ensure that any artifacts you purchase are ethically sourced and legally obtained. The market for these items is also flooded with fakes and modern reproductions, making the process of authentication and the establishment of provenance even more difficult.
Our goal here is to track these items, document what can be learned about them, and possibly connect their sale or exchange with an appropriate entity that may be interested in acquiring them for repatriation or preservation.
II. Cataloging, studying, and preserving maize and bean varieties related to those in use during the Mississippian Era
Some varieties of maize and beans grown at the time of contact have been documented and preserved, while others are still in use across Turtle Island. Understanding the role of maize and beans in Mississippian communities is a major aspect of this project.
To do this, we need to gather as much data as possible, including current research. But we also need to study and preserve those seed varieties that may still be available. These varieties can then be compared to those in use in Mexico and the Southwest. They can also be stored and propagated for future generations.
Objects on the Open Market
This statue was labeled as coming from the Mississippian Era. It was put up for auction as part of a descesed relative's collection. If its provenance could be confirmed, it would be of major significance, as it incorporates elements from the Mississippian and Mesoamerican worlds. Most notably are the facial features of the rain god Tlaloc of central Mexico.
Another item that was recently put up for auction. Here we find a unique combination of Mississippian elements: a thunder being usually found on shell gorgets and the petiloid tablets of Moundville.
Here is another item recently put up for sale from a private collection. It is in the tradition of statuary found in the Cumberland River region during the Mississippian Era.