Arrow Sash Item Number: 3558/9 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
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.
The ceinture fléchée (also known as "L'Assomption sash" or "arrow sash") refers to this particular type of colourful woven sash. A traditional part of French-Canadian clothing of the 19th century, it was used by men to tie around their waists over jackets or coats. The Métis also wear them as part of their traditional regalia.
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."