Chunkey Stone Possibly 1200 - 1400

The "Chunkey Stone" is a small, round, and intricately carved stone bowl crafted by the Mississippian people sometime between 1200 and 1400. This piece, now at the Art Institute of Chicago, is an example of the refined craftsmanship and artistic skills of the Mississippian culture. It's likely this stone served a ritualistic or ceremonial purpose, possibly used in the game of chunkey, which was a popular pastime of the Mississippian peoples. The smooth, rounded form and the meticulous carving of the bowl demonstrate a deep understanding of materials and design.