Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2252:
Description
This is a compelling traditional archery set, featuring a handcrafted wooden longbow with a deep reddish-brown finish, accompanied by a fringed buckskin quiver and seven distinct arrows. The arrows showcase a fascinating variety of craftsmanship; six are tipped with hand-fashioned metal points—likely Native-made from salvaged trade metal like barrel hoops or kettles—while the seventh features a carved bone tip. The shafts are fletched with natural feathers and secured with traditional-style sinew or thread wraps. Historically, this style reflects the utilitarian beauty of Great Plains or Plateau tribal gear, characterized by the long, fringed buckskin sleeve and the use of “mixed” points—a classic representation of 19th-century hunting and defense tools. The bow appears structurally sound with minor surface scuffs; the arrows range in length from 18″ to 26″ and show varying degrees of wear, with some fletching being ruffled and oxidation present on metal tips. Notably, some of the metal arrowheads show evidence of having been recently sharpened, creating a contrast between the aged patina of the metal and the bright, fresh edges. The buckskin quiver shows light staining and natural darkening from age. H 52″, W 3″, D 3″. Please see photos.
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