Relics of the American West: 1850-1920 - ONLINE ONLY
Lot 2493:
Description
This pair of hard-sole moccasins is a classic example of late 19th or early 20th-century Great Plains craftsmanship, likely of Sioux or Cheyenne origin. The construction utilizes authentic brain-tanned hide uppers hand-stitched to rugged rawhide soles. Most notable is the inclusion of genuine porcupine quillwork, featuring vibrant red-dyed quills applied in horizontal bands across the vamps, a traditional technique that predates the widespread use of glass beads. The perimeter is embellished with a “lazy stitch” beadwork border in a palette of greasy yellow, cobalt blue, and white seed beads, while the ankle collars are finished with a red calico trade cloth binding. The condition is excellent for a textile of this age; the quillwork remains largely intact with strong color retention, though some expected minor splitting of the organic quills is visible. The hide is sturdy with typical age-patina, and the beadwork shows no significant losses or loose threads. L 9.5″, W 3.75″, H 3.75″. Please see photos.
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