Rare 17th/18th Century Double Bear Effigy Feast Bowl

Figured maple; deep, rich, original patina, This bowl is beautifully shaped and carved with thin sides and light weight. The bears heads being perfectly balanced in relationship to bowl. With sophisticated and fluid lines. Effigy Bowls were passed down through generations with the belief that the effigy would look out for the next generation. These bowls also serve as an image of hope during sacred feasts. It is extremely rare to find an effigy on both ends of a bowl. First time offering.