Any information on 17-18c pipe clay figurines would be
appreciated.

I am working on a case study of a pipe clay figurine
recovered from a late 17c archaeological site in Southern
Maryland, USA.  Several similar pipeclay figurines have been
recovered from sites in England, the Netherlands, and other
colonial American sites.  These pipe clay figurines appear
in the form of cherubs, lions, madonnas, kings, and
gentlemen.

The artifact I am examining is the torso of a royal figure
clad in armor and cape, holding an orb and sword.  The torso
is 6 inches high, 3 inches wide, and weighs 570 grams.
Thus far, none of the kingly figurines I am aware of have
their heads, but there is a complete image in relief on a
pipe bowl of a very similar king with crown. (I will forward
images of the figurine to anyone who is interested.)

I am interested in connecting the figurine with its
inspiration - perhaps in an engraving or other illustration,
as well as in the appearance of these sorts of figurines in
the backgrounds of paintings.  I am curious about the
relationship between the pipe making molds with the figurine
making molds, and the process of making these figures with
this clay.

Lastly, have you found pipe clay figurines on your
archaeological sites?

Thanks for your help.
Anne Grulich
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