
Collection Online as of January 26, 2021
Part of a set. See all set records
Velvet, cotton
Overall: 19.2 cm (7 9/16 in.); Average: 12.5 x 30 cm (4 15/16 x 11 13/16 in.)
Anonymous gift in memory of Sarah Ann Morrison 1956.788
not on view
In the 1800s, native peoples began to use European fabrics to fashion fine formal garments; they favored sturdy cloth, such as velvet and wool broadcloth, which provided support for heavy decorative beadwork that was added by hand. Often the fabric was a dark color, providing dramatic contrast for the multicolored beads. Rather than encrusting the entire garment, beadwork was confined to cuffs, “epaulettes,” bib-like plackets and yokes, rectangular panels sewn to leggings, shirts, and dresses, and the like.