Haudenosaunee – Iroquois Style Beaded Bag mid-1800s

Description

This Niagara bead work bag/ purse is antique period from the 1830s to 1860s – mid 19th century. This type was made and  sold by Haudenosaunee (Iroquois – Seneca Tuscarora, Oneida, Onondaga and Mohawk) people. The book ‘Gifts of Sun and Stars’ [ISBN: 9781649455147] has photos of many almost identical listed as Mohawk but it is hard to say where they came from as many communities made this type.  This is a piece of history; many were sold at Niagara Falls as souvenirs as the Falls became a favorite destination for tourists and newly weds beginning in the early Victorian Era and so are sometimes called ‘Niagara beadwork’.  This is a very well preserved and classic design from over 150 years ago. It is 6″ high and 5″ across. There are very few spots where beads are missing – one is about 1.5″ of beads missing from the bottom of one side and a few beads missing on one flap – otherwise amazing shape for its age. The ribbon is intact, as is the beadwork on the other side. We often display these bags in a frame to hang on wall, much better looking than some family members!  This is a lovely example of this style of bead work.  Check out our other beaded collectable and rare items from the past!!