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1880s Potawatomi Moccasins, Plains Leather, Northeast Woodlands, Beaded

About the Item

This rare and well preserved pair of circa 1880 Potawatomi moccasins is an exceptional example of 19th-century Northeast Woodlands Native American craftsmanship. Hand-stitched from native tanned hide, the moccasins feature large, flared cuffs intricately adorned with edge beadwork using vibrant trade glass beads in white, purple, red, green, and yellow. The meticulous beading forms elegant patterns that highlight the refined artistry of the Potawatomi people. In addition to the beadwork, the cuffs are embellished with rich trade cloth in corresponding hues, reflecting the cultural exchange between Native American tribes and European-American traders of the period. This incorporation of imported silk-like fabrics into traditional designs adds texture, color, and historical depth to the piece. The moccasins themselves are finely constructed, reflecting the Potawatomi’s distinctive style and their deep cultural connection to both their environment and traditions. The blend of traditional materials with trade goods illustrates the tribe’s adaptability and creative expression during a period of significant cultural change. Moccasin Details: Tribe: Potawatomi, Northeast Woodlands Date: Circa 1880 Material: Native tanned hide, trade glass beads, silk trade cloth Decoration: Edge beadwork in white, purple, red, green, and yellow Region: Great Lakes / Upper Midwest / Northeast Woodlands These antique Potawatomi moccasins are a museum-quality artifact and a powerful expression of Indigenous identity, artistry, and resilience. Ideal for collectors of Native American textiles, historic tribal regalia, or 19th-century ethnographic art, they offer a tangible link to the rich cultural legacy of the Northeast Woodlands peoples.
  • Creator:
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 10.25 in (26.04 cm)Width: 4 in (10.16 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
  • Style:
    Native American (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1880
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. very good to excellent condition.
  • Seller Location:
    Denver, CO
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 101241stDibs: LU1004630720842

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