Arrow Sash Item Number: 3558/9 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Handwoven belt with a multi-coloured pattern. The sash, or belt, is long and woven with lines of short diagonal stripes in white, yellow, light blue, dark blue, and green on a bright red background. The wool is plaited into thick cords at each end, with the threads left long and unbraided. Square yellow badges stitched to either end, on front; gold sticker on back with maker information.

History Of Use

The ceinture fléchée (also known as "L'Assomption sash" or "arrow sash") refers to this particular type of colourful woven sash. Métis wear them as part of their traditional regalia. They were also a traditional part of French-Canadian clothing of the 19th century, used by men to tie around their waists over jackets or coats.

Narrative

Gifted to Thomas Berger during his 32 years of work on the Manitoba Metis Federation vs Canada; the badges attached to the sash say "Order of the Metis Nation."

Iconographic Meaning

Yellow symbolizes prosperity, white represents the connection to the Creator, blue symbolizes water, green symbolizes earth, and red symbolizes the blood that has been, and is being spilled.

Item History

What

Name
Arrow Sash
Identification Number
3558/9
Type of Item
sash
Material
dye and wool fibre
Overall
height 11.6 cm, width 263.5 cm

Who

Culture
Metis
Creator
Claudette Brunet (Maker)
Previous Owner
Thomas R. Berger and Beverley Berger
Received from
Beverley Berger (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
Quebec, Canada
Collected in
Manitoba, Canada

When

Ownership Date
before 2021 and before April 13, 2022
Acquisition Date
on April 13, 2022

Other

Item Classes
textiles
Condition
excellent
Accession Number
3558/0009