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Cultural Context

trade; personal decoration; status

Description

Circular brooch with scalloped border, then row of perforated triangles and ovals, then a row of inter-spaced triangles around the central raised, circular cut-out. Maker's mark on front in place of one triangle.

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.

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.