Native American, Pacific Northwest Coast, United States, Tlingit / Haida, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. An unusual and old hide pouch with a flap closure, the surface decorated with red wool trade cloth, glass seed beads, and abalone shell fragments. The upper flap is painted with a formline face, and under the flap on the bag is a second and larger version, they seem to guard the contents of the pocket. This pouch could have held any manner of object; however, the ornate style and abalone shells suggests a special purpose that may have been ceremonial like a medicine bag, rather than purely utilitarian due to the large shells. Perhaps medicinal plants or valuables were contained within; the pouch brought out and carried during a potlatch or other event to convey wealth or status. This is a rare and well preserved piece with very few examples in museums or public collections and comes in a modern display case. Size of pouch: 11" L x 5.75" W (27.9 cm x 14.6 cm); display case: 14" L x 11" W x 2.3" H (35.6 cm x 27.9 cm x 5.8 cm)

Provenance: private West Jordon, Utah, USA collection; ex-Anderson, California, USA collection

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#178549

Fading and losses to painted pigments. Light mineral and earthen deposits. Pilling to wool fabric and staining. Leather is still but somewhat supple and flap opens. Beadwork is intact and excellent. Mounted in a modern display case.