Earrings Item Number: 1590/242 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Pair of earrings with an outer ring with 7 oval cutouts. Inner circle has a central circular cutout and 8 oval cutouts which alternate with 7 engraved fleur de lys. There is a thin loop inserted on each side. Maker’s mark stamped on the inner ring and a lion on the other side.
History Of Use
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
Repousse is a type of ornamentation formed in relief in metal by hammering up from the reverse or inner side.
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
- Current Location
- Case 45
- Accession Number
- 1590/0242 a-b