tube-shaped container, slightly smaller in diameter at bottom; tied at top, bottom and side with leather thongs; decorated with repeating geometric patterns in 3 rows on body, in red, green and black

Parfleche Container, 19th century

Animal hide, pigmentexpand_more

The Paul C. Johnson, Jr. Fundexpand_more  2000.139

Not on Viewexpand_more

These two uniquely shaped rawhide cases highlight the technically skilled artistic abilities of Tsistsistas (Cheyenne) and Inua-ina (Arapaho) artists. Because they were allies, the Arapaho and the Tsistsistas share some artistic qualities, particularly their use of delicately drawn lines. The pattern you see on the fringed bag is one of three distinct patterns used by the Tsistsistas on their bags. This artist emphasizes the power of color in her dramatic shapes. There is a sense of balance as the amount of colored and uncolored areas are distributed evenly.

Details
Title
Parfleche Container
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2000.139
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These 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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tube-shaped container, slightly smaller in diameter at bottom; tied at top, bottom and side with leather thongs; decorated with repeating geometric patterns in 3 rows on body, in red, green and black