Pendant Item Number: 1590/251 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Convex oval-shaped pendant with protuberances on each side, from which hang flat silver rings. Suspened from bottom centre are two concentric flat silver rings, the larger of which is engraved with a sunburst. Zigzag line sunburst engraved on surface of pendant. Ring at top. Each component has a cartouche. All edges outlined with zigzag engraving.
History Of Use
This object was used as a bridle decoration. Reference Woodward, Arthur “The Denominators of the Fur Trade:, 1970, p. 29-30. Research by Sandra Doxtdator. Silver ornaments represent an important part of early exchange between Europeans,including fur traders, and First Nations peoples, 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 peoples 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.
Specific Techniques
Rocker engraving is a freehand technique. Irregularity is characteristic.
Cultural Context
trade; personal decoration; status
Item History
- Made in Canada ? or USA ? 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
- Previous Owner
- Kathleen E. Reif
- Received from
- Kathleen E. Reif (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Canada ? or USA ?
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
- Accession Number
- 1590/0251