Image: Native North American - Bird Figure - Walters 2006155 - Side

Description: A nearly identical bird form in the British Museum has been classified as a counter weight for an "atlatl," or "throwing stick." This weapon, used widely throughout the Americas, served as a simple extension of the arm, allowing the user to hurl a short spear with greater force. The drilled holes on the underside of the bird form would have been used to attach it to the "atlatl" with twine.
Title: Bird Figure
Credit: Walters Art Museum: Home page  Info about artwork
Author: Native North American
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Usage Terms: Public domain
License: Public domain
Attribution Required?: No