yellowish-tinted hide; bands of beading at bottom edges and in block on outside of legs; linear, rectangular and triangular designs

Pair of Woman's Leggings, c. 1880

Not on Viewexpand_more

Among the Tsistsistas, women traditionally worked hides for clothing and other necessities. Designs were then added by members of exclusive women's societies who regulated their meanings and use. The beaded lines here, for example, traditionally represented the war honors of the wearer or her family, a motif repeated often on men's shirts and leggings. However, by the time these leggings were created the symbolism of the lines was likely used more for their decorative effect. The motif blends tradition and art, balancing the geometric symmetry of the beading with the contrasting colors and repeating borders of the lane-stitched design.

Details
Title
Pair of Woman's Leggings
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2003.162.1a,b
Curator Approved

This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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yellowish-tinted hide; bands of beading at bottom edges and in block on outside of legs; linear, rectangular and triangular designs