Brooch Item Number: 1590/167 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Circular brooch with raised scalloped edge, row of cut-out rectangles, row of cut-out hearts, and row of cut-out triangles around central cut-out raised circle. Line of zigzag engraving around outside and other lines engraved between each row. Maker's mark on front. Cross-pin bent through hole.
History Of Use
Silver ornaments represent an important part of early exchange between Europeans, including fur traders, and First Nations people, especially in eastern and central Canada and the U.S.A. Initially, the main source of silver was British, French and Spanish coins. Most ornaments were produced by silversmiths of European origin in North America and Europe, and were actively traded only from 1760 to 1821. By the mid-18th century silver objects were produced in New England, Quebec and Montreal. Silver was used by First Nations people as a sign of rank. Silver ornaments in these styles continue to be produced by native silversmiths in central Canada and the U.S.A. Brooches were the most popular and numerous silver ornaments, with cut-out designs of stars and hearts. They were worn on the chest, but also in the hair. Frequently, many were worn at once in rows across the chest. Silver ornaments were carefully tailored to the interests of the intended trading partners.
Cultural Context
trade; personal decoration; status
Specific Techniques
Repousse is a type of ornamentation formed in relief in metal by hammering up from the reverse or inner side.
Narrative
The donors collected this brooch in the 1960s or 1970s. Two pressing concerns made them cease collecting. The first was the ethical and legal issue: archaeological sites were being looted to supply demand. The second was a question of authenticity, trade silver is relatively easy to copy.
Item History
- Made by Charles Arnoldi (Maker) in Montreal, Quebec, Canada between 1760 and 1821
- Owned by Kathleen E. Reif before September 9, 1993
- Received from Kathleen E. Reif (Donor) on September 9, 1993
What
Who
- Culture
- Eastern Woodlands
- Creator
- Charles Arnoldi (Maker)
- Previous Owner
- Kathleen E. Reif
- Received from
- Kathleen E. Reif (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Montreal, Quebec, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- between 1760 and 1821
- Ownership Date
- before September 9, 1993
- Acquisition Date
- on September 9, 1993
Other
- Item Classes
- metalwork
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 45
- Accession Number
- 1590/0167