Medallion Item Number: Ne214 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Two medallions sewn together. Hide covered with cloth, beadwork over entire surface areas of both sides; sewn together with strands of black beads looped to cover joined medallions. Border only partial way around so opening is created, forming a pocket-like object. One side: white bead background with square of purple pink bordering blue. Attached to each corner, leaf-shaped motif of blue bordering green. Reverse: purple pink strands with small red bead sections arranged in concentric rows and alternated with two rows of light blue. Red alternating with light blue at centre.

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. Medallions decorated knife sheaths, blanket strips, and many other articles. Large medallions made into belt bags and other containers, such as this holder for a watch.

Item History

What

Name
Medallion
Identification Number
Ne214
Type of Item
medallion
Material
skin, cotton fibre, fibre and glass
Manufacturing Technique
cut, sewn, lazy-stitched, strung and spot-stitched
Overall
depth 1.0 cm, diameter 7.5 cm

Who

Culture
Plains Cree
Previous Owner
George Grey Wolf and Anthony A. Kingscote
Received from
Anthony A. Kingscote (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
Saskatchewan, Canada

When

Creation Date
before 1923
Collection Date
before 1923
Ownership Date
before March 10, 1978
Acquisition Date
on March 10, 1978

Other

Item Classes
beadwork; textiles
Condition
fair
Current Location
Case 44
Accession Number
0445/0007