pair of beaded moccasins

unrecorded Sioux artist, artist

pair of beaded moccasins, early-mid 1900s

Where object was made: United States

Material/technique: rawhide; beading; buckskin

Dimensions:
Object Height/Width/Length (Height x Width x Length): each 10 x 12 x 23 cm width of ankle flaps
Object Height/Width/Length (Height x Width x Length): 3 15/16 x 4 3/4 x 9 1/16 in

Credit line: Gift of Ann and Britt Brown, Blackbear Bosin Collection

Accession number: 2007.2314.a,b

Not on display

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The Object Speaks

Symbols of the United States, such as flags or the eagle on this pair of moccasins, appear often in Native American art and are especially prevalent in Sioux beadwork. In the 1800s, the American flag was a symbol of power and authority, often presented to Native American dignitaries, or captured during conflicts with encroaching U.S. Army troops. Beginning with World War I, many Sioux citizens served in the armed forces, effectively linking the flag with the deep history of Sioux warrior heritage. Even today, American flags are often worn by Sioux veterans and their family members.