Object number:
H16.2464
Object name:
charm stone
Date made:
April 18-28, 1914; April 18-28, 1914
Material/Technique:
Stone
Dimensions:
Dia: 1.375 in
Credit line:
Museum Purchase; Charles P. Wilcomb Collection
Copyright status:
Copyright Undetermined
Physical description:
Charm stone. Grooved at end for attaching string.
Content description:
From the History Information Station: "Object: Charm stone collected among the Pomo of Lake County, and acquired by the Oakland Public Museum in 1914. History: To the Pomo, the world is a place in which natural objects are alive and possess power and magic. Rocks of unusual form, such as these charm stones, are believed to possess special power and are part of the outfit, or singing, doctor. The doctor heats the stones and rubs them with special herbs. In cases where the patient's ailment is localized, they were pressed against the injured or painful area.
Cultural affinity:
Pomo
Field collection place:
Lakeport, California
Field collection date:
April 18-28, 1914
Field collector(s):
Charles Presby Wilcomb
Field collection note:
Wilcomb bought from Wooldgridge of Lakeport

Consultation and/or research has led us to believe that this item is not considered funerary or culturally sensitive. However, affiliated Tribe(s) determine the cultural significance of their items. If this item is a part of your heritage and you wish to contact us about it, please email nagpra@museumca.org.

For additional information on OMCA’s work in service to Native communities, please click here.
The examination and research of objects within OMCA’s collection is ongoing. If you have comments, additional information, or questions about this object record, we welcome your feedback. Please send us a note.