Relics of the American West: 1850-1920 - ONLINE ONLY

Hand-Painted Plains Cylindrical Parfleche Box

Live auction will start in __ days and __ hours

Start price: $100

Estimated price: $200 - $10,000

Buyer's Premium:

Description

This striking Plains-style parfleche box is a wonderful example of traditional-style hide work, featuring vibrant geometric motifs in red, yellow, green, and blue. Constructed from stiff, folded rawhide, the box is meticulously secured with thick red felt or wool binding and sinew-style lacing. The interior reveals the natural, untreated texture of the hide, while the exterior decoration suggests a piece created for the 20th-century collectors’ market or for ceremonial use. While the specific maker and origin are not marked, the design language is characteristic of Northern Plains artistry. The item is in good vintage condition with some light surface soiling to the hide, minor fading to the pigments in spots, and some fraying to the red fabric edges consistent with age and handling. H 6.25″, W 9.5″, D 6.5″. Please see photos.