19th-Century Kiowa-Apache Beaded Hide Bag, Native American Plains Artifact

This exceptional mid-19th century Plains Indian tobacco bag is a rare and visually compelling example of traditional Native American artistry from the Northern Plains region. Crafted...

This extraordinary antique Sioux beaded hide dress, dating circa 1880, is a rare and authentic example of Plains Indian textile artistry. Handcrafted from native-tanned deer hide, th...

This stunning pair of antique 19th-century Cheyenne Plains Tobacco Society beaded leggings, dating back to the 1880s, showcases the artistry and cultur...

This antique 19th-century Lakota (Sioux) doctor’s bag is an exceptional example of Plains Indian beadwork artistry, crafted from native-tanned buffalo hide and intricately adorned with Venetian glass trade beads. The beadwork is sinew-sewn and features a vibrant mix of white-hearts, dark blue, greasy yellow, translucent blue, and faceted metal beads, all set against a bright white field for striking contrast. Both sides of the bag are fully beaded, each showcasing unique traditional design elements such as arrow motifs, crosses, and geometric patterns, symbolizing strength, direction, and protection. The original metal clasp and handle remain intact, further enhancing its authenticity and historic value. Though referred to as “doctor’s bags,” these pieces were not used for medical purposes. Instead, they were gifted to physicians by Native communities—particularly as tokens of gratitude for care or assistance rendered to tribal members during the late 19th century. As such, they hold both cultural and ceremonial significance. The Lakota, one of the three major divisions of the Sioux Nation, are a nomadic Plains tribe known for their highly developed beadwork traditions. Residing in the Great Plains across present-day South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, and Wyoming, the Lakota are renowned for creating deeply symbolic and intricately detailed art that reflects their spiritual beliefs, cultural identity, and connection to the land. This rare beaded doctor’s bag...

Native American Sioux beaded teepee bag. Having beaded front, sides and top. Beadwork is mostly white with blue, yellow, red, and green forming traditional geometric design. Having t...

Hidatsa Sioux work bag from Fort Berthold, North Dakota. Properly referred to as a woman's work bag that was used for holding sewing materials, sinew, awls and beads. Sinew sewn on brain tanned...

Sioux beaded pipe bag. Having large-beaded panels both sides on brain tanned buffalo. Bead patterns feature white background with green and blue tradition...

Native American Ojibwe Chippewa beaded Pipe bag A fine Native American Ojibwe or Chippewa  beaded Pipe bag Hide with a serrated edge with  finely be...