Mississippian Head Pots
Among the rarest and most haunting artifacts of the Mississippian culture are the ceramic vessels known today as head pots. Only around 140 of these striking effigy head vessels have been recovered, making them one of the most extraordinary expressions of Native artistry in the archaeological record. The Museum of Native American History is proud to feature this display, which showcases the most examples of authentic Mississippian head pots ever assembled for public viewing.
To provide some background, the Mississippian period began around 900 AD and lasted until approximately 1650 AD. The cultures that thrived in this period were the Mississippian, Quapaw, and Caddo. During this time, people lived in various types of communities, ranging from small farmsteads to large ceremonial centers and sprawling villages that extended for miles. To support many people, farming was essential. Crops like corn, beans, squash, sunflowers, and other vegetables were grown on a large scale. Even though agriculture played a significant role in their diet, hunting was still necessary, too. The bow and arrow had mostly replaced the atlatl and spear, and it was used for both hunting and defense.
Effigy pottery saw its peak development during the Middle to Late Mississippian periods, marked by the rise of the remarkable hooded effigy vessels. It is also shown that painted pottery became significantly more widespread during this era. Although many of the vessel types from the Early Mississippian period remained in use, potters began modifying some bottle forms by giving them longer and broader necks. Techniques applied after firing, such as engraving and polishing, also gained popularity during this time.
Crafted between A.D. 1400 and 1550, each pot averages five to six inches in height and ranges in design from realistic portrayals of individuals to more stylized renderings that may reflect cultural or spiritual symbolism. It is debated what these head pots represent, and researchers are continuing to study these fascinating artifacts to learn more. Although we do know that they are distinguished from other pots in that they are formed into the shape of a human head.
What sets these vessels apart is their deep human character. Many of them display painted surfaces and engraved lines that appear to depict markings that may have held personal, social, or ceremonial significance. Perforations on the ears and nose hint at the Mississippian practice of body modification, such as piercing. It’s even possible these vessels were once dressed with feathers or other organic materials, added before the pots were buried as sacred offerings
While utilitarian pottery remained essentially unchanged during this period, head pots reflect a dramatic shift in artistic expression. The craftsmanship reveals a leap in creativity, imagination, and symbolism, making them not just artifacts but voices from the past.
The majority of head pots discovered so far have come from Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas, tying them closely to the region we now call home. We invite you to visit us here at MONAH and see these vessels for yourself. Take a moment to look into the faces shaped centuries ago—each one a rare window into the lives, beliefs, and artistry of the Mississippian people.
Blog by Brittney Easley
References:
Cherry, J.F (2009). The headpots of northeast Arkansas and southern Pemiscot County, Missouri. University of Arkansas Press.
Cooper, S. R., & Smith, B. (Eds.). (2025). The official Overstreet Indian arrowheads identification and price guide (16th ed.). House of Collectibles.