Native American Iroquois Beaded Whimsey Purse
$275.00
1 in stock
A striking example of 19th-century Native American artistry, this Iroquois beaded piece showcases intricate raised glass beadwork meticulously applied to rich red cotton. Crafted in the Niagara region during the late 1800s, these tourist-inspired "whimsies" blended functional design with decorative appeal. While their purse-like silhouette suggests utility, many served as ornamental treasures—pincushions, wall pockets, or display pieces. Each bead reflects the skilled craftsmanship of its maker, making this an authentic artifact of cultural heritage and Victorian-era collecting traditions.
- Origin: Crafted by Iroquois (Six Nations of the Grand River, Tuscarora, and Mohawk) artisans in the Northeast Woodlands region.
- Style: Referred to as "whimsies", these items were produced for the Victorian tourist market and frequently incorporated European aesthetics, including purse shapes and specific floral/bird motifs, while maintaining traditional beading techniques.
- Materials: Typically constructed with small glass seed beads, sewn onto a cloth base (often velvet or wool) using appliqué methods.
Features
About 4 Inches
