Old West & Native American Auction
Lot 1196:
Description
This striking pair of early 20th-century Native American-style high-top boots, likely a decorative or ceremonial item rather than everyday wear, exhibits classic Northern Plains or possibly Great Lakes artistic traditions, specifically in the use of floral beadwork motifs. The boots are constructed primarily from a rich red wool or felt for the tall shaft, accented by white tanned hide or felt band, and finished with a durable, pointed natural tanned hide sole. The vibrant beadwork features a distinct, four-lobed flower in shades of turquoise and blue, complemented by green bead and thread-work stems and leaves. Details include a braided red and white wool cord and tassel at the cuff, which shows minor wear, and a delicate, semi-translucent, white skin or membrane trim (possibly rawhide or gut) circling the ankle, which is very dry, brittle, and cracked. The boots show significant age and use; the red fabric is faded and has surface wear, the white hide band shows discoloration and wear, and the leather soles have minimal scuffing. There is minor thread loss and some fraying, particularly around the cuffs, but the beadwork remains largely intact. H 11″, W 4.5″, D 11″. From the Native American display in Donley’s Wild West Town.
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