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Antique Native American Plains Pierced Hide War Shirt with Beadwork

$42,000
£31,855.31
€38,154.63
CA$60,475.73
A$61,875.35
CHF 35,097.66
MX$793,112.30
NOK 402,498.25
SEK 419,532.72
DKK 285,209.06

About the Item

An exceptional Native American Plains hide shirt, fashioned from supple, naturally tanned animal hide and distinguished by its extensive openwork decoration, hand stitching, fringe, and blue and white glass beadwork. The shirt features hundreds of individually cut oval perforations arranged in closely spaced horizontal rows across the body and sleeves. This unusual decorative treatment creates a striking geometric pattern while preserving the natural texture and character of the hide. The shoulders are accented with narrow bands of blue and white glass beads, providing a subtle contrast against the warm tan surface. A large central neck flap, bordered with hand cut leather fringe, extends down the chest. Additional fringe decorates the sleeves and lower edges, while traditional hide ties and visible hand sewn seams further illustrate the garment's construction. The overall silhouette, generous sleeves, extended lower panels, and elaborate pierced decoration are characteristic of the artistic traditions associated with Native American Plains clothing. The precise tribal attribution and age have not been established. Literature and Comparative Reference A closely related type of Native American Plains hide shirt is illustrated on the cover of *Akicita: Early Plains and Woodlands Indian Art from the Collection of Alexander Acevedo*, published by the Southwest Museum, Los Angeles, in 1983. The shirt illustrated on the cover shares several notable characteristics with the present example, including its extensively perforated hide surface, broad sleeves, fringed edges, and overall construction. This published comparison provides an important visual reference for the distinctive form and decorative technique of the present garment. Dimensions: length 42 inches. Condition:The hide exhibits age related discoloration, surface wear, creasing, and areas of dryness. There are irregularities and losses to portions of the fringe, together with wear around some perforations and seams. The garment retains its distinctive openwork decoration and surviving blue and white beadwork. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed assessment of condition.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 42 in (106.68 cm)Width: 42 in (106.68 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
  • Style:
    Native American (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Hide,Beaded
  • Place of Origin:
    United States
  • Period:
    Mid-19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1850
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Long Island City, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU7386252901422

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