Medallion Item Number: Ne219 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Oval-shaped; hide backing with single-coloured strands of beads sewn on in concentric rows. Moving to the centre, outermost border is one red strand, followed by two dark blue, one red, and the centre is all light blue. Hide entirely covered by beadwork. Edging in dark blue pattern.

History Of Use

Glass trade beads, first introduced by Europeans to North American Native groups, in the east, circa 1675. Had an impact on aspects of economic and aesthetic activity. Designed and stitched by women. Beadwork made for own family use. Before prominence of tourist art.