Niagara Beadwork Hat
Maker
Unknown, American
Additional Title(s)
- Iroquois Beaded Hat
Collections
ClassificationsCOSTUMES AND JEWELRY
Dateca. 1870
Mediumbeadwork on black cloth and velvet
Dimensions3 3/4 x 11 x 6 1/4 in. (9.5 x 27.9 x 15.9 cm.)
DescriptionIroquois Niagara beadwork hat; with floral pattern on top and sides, with thick green stems and flower in red, yellow, white, and blues, on black background, and edged in red velvet
Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Gift of Jonathan and Karin Fielding
Label TextA product of the intersection of two cultures -- Native American and Victorian-era Euro-American -- this "Glengarry cap" from Niagara Falls, New York, decorated with intricate floral beadwork, was made by Iroquois women to be sold to tourists. The making and selling of such souvenirs -- including beaded purses, gloves, wallets, and belts -- was a means of economic survival for local indigenous peoples. The hat's popular "Niagara floral style" beadwork was designed to appeal to Victorian tastes, and its Glengarry style was derived from Scottish Highland dress, made familiar by military uniforms worn by British soldiers in Canada.Status
On viewObject number2016.25.5
