Trade and Exchange among the Mohawk-Iroquois: A Trace Element Analysis of Ceramic Smoking Pipes

This study reports the results of a trace element analysis of Mohawk-Iroquois ceramics. The objective of the research was an attempt to identify trade ceramics, specifically ceramic smoking pipes, in Mohawk assemblages. Over 400 ceramic artifacts were analyzed using an X-ray fluorescence technique to determine their trace element compositions. Control samples of pottery were utilized to demonstrate differences in the elemental composition of regional clay resources, and ceramic pipes of known provenience were then identified as to their probable region of origin. The results indicate that ceramic pipes were common trade items among the Mohawk. The trade and exchange of pipes is interpreted as a phenomenon of Iroquois gift giving and reciprocity involving a material class of important symbolic value.