Mount Piska figurines show African and Egyptian stylistic connections. Artifacts found 1879-1882 by Man Valentine in former Cherokee village Covered approximately 15 square miles Included figurines of humans riding horses with bow and arrow

Artifacts found 1879-1882 at a former Cherokee village (approx 15 square miles) include figurines of humans on horses with bows, a rhino matching Egyptian Middle Dynasty (2040 BC), and a Tanit symbol (Carthaginian goddess). Some figurines match pieces from Sierra Leone/Ivory Coast dated 25,000 years old. Both made of steatite converted to chlorite at 1100°C+ heat. Artifacts curated at Valentine Museum and Smithsonian. Materials and heating process verifiable through analysis.

Key Facts

  • Artifacts found 1879-1882 by Man Valentine in former Cherokee village
  • Covered approximately 15 square miles
  • Included figurines of humans riding horses with bow and arrow
  • Rhino figurine matches Egyptian Middle Dynasty style dated 2040 BC
  • Tanit symbol (North African Carthaginian goddess) found at site
  • Figurines match those from Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast dated 25,000 years old
  • Both made of steatite converted to chlorite by heating over 1100°C
  • Side saddle figurine similar to 6th century tradition through 1800s
  • Currently curated at Valentine Museum and Smithsonian