PERDIDO BAY TRIBE

SOUTHEASTERN LOWER MUSCOGEE CREEK INDIANS, INC.

Native Paths Muscogee Creek Cultural Heritage and Resource Projects

Carved Cypress Knee

Side One

The Carvings on this Cypress knee represent significant aspects of Bearheart's Creek Heritage which have served as the foundation of his life's work to honor and preserve the memory of the First People of the Southeast.

This image represents the spirit and wisdom of the old ones.

Carved Cypress Knee

Side Two

The figure on this side honors Bearheart's Clan Uncle who served as his mentor and guide. From Uncle, Bearheart learned the basics of his Muscogee Creek heritage - from survival in the swamps and forests to  traditional woodworking arts and crafts. Bearheart often says that the most important lesson Uncle taught him was how to live like a real human being.

Note the top of both images. This is a hand holding a water moccasin, Oy Citto, representing one of the ancient clans of the region.

Masks

Joseph Johns Cayoni

 Spider

Carved image of a spider with a goldstone cabochon for the body. The material used is the "crown" of elk antler. Reverse is carved image of an old person.  A Bearheart Original 

Pipe with Antler Bowl

Finely carved antler bowl with silver inside bowl. The stem is beautifully grained oak and adorned with deer skin, ermine fur with beads and feathers. Wood base, with antler cradle.             

A Bearheart Original

Running Horse

Inspired by a long-ago cartoon. With the bit between his teeth, the cartoon horse plunged off a cliff, while the cowboy could only hang on for dear life.   A Bearheart Original

Private Collection

Pipe

This pipe is made from an elk antler and is adorned with leather, silver and beads. The mouthpiece is a brass case from a 30-30 shell. This piece was selected to tour the State of Florida Museums in 1991 and 1992.    A Bearheart Original

Corn Husk Dolls

Fifteen corn husk dolls in various styles revisits the childhood of a People who used the gifts of nature for joy and beauty.

Wild Boar Tusk Naja

Wild boar tusk "naja" with a hammered silver half dollar drop. The tusk is carved with ancient designs.      

A Bearheart Original.

Antler Knife

Hand carved antler handle with 6" blade.

Horse head adorned with bead work.

A Bearheart Original

Carved Antler

Antler is carved with designs and figures. The skull is encased with various shades of turquoise pieces. This piece is worn as a powerful statement.    

A Bearheart Original.

Baby in Cradle

Cradle is made from deer antlers, wood, fur and leather. Baby has a leather face, Spanish moss hair and fur body. The cradle is covered with turquoise and exotic bird feathers.  

A Bearheart Original

Shell Gorget

Shell gorget carved with the four woodpecker design. These originally were believed to be used as throat armor.  

Creek artist, Dan Townsend.