Materials

Black velvet, red wool tape, cotton, red and blue commercial wool yarn, glass beads (used for beadwork and tassels), thread.

Techniques or Format

The floral imagery was likely applied using the spot-stitching or appliqué technique while the geometric patterns on the strap were likely done with loom-weaving. The red slit on the front of the pouch does not open, nor is any functioning pocket to be found on the bag. The sides are bound with red wool tape. The entirety of the front of the pouch and strap is beaded. The top of the strap and bottom of the bag have fringes made of bead and wool yarn tassels.

Motifs and Patterns

Abstract floral imagery adorns the pouch. The strap shows a geometric design with one large multi-colored zigzag with different colors of circles in the openings created by the zigzag pattern.

Condition: Overall good. Cloth shows wear, and some beads are missing.

Reasons for connecting this relative with particular times, materials, styles and uses

This date range listed on the catalog card corresponds with the dates attributed to bandolier bags of similar materials, techniques, and iconography. In the early twentieth century, bandolier bags were often made without a functional pocket, just like this bag. The juxtaposition of floral imagery and geometric motifs was also seen at this time.

Current Location: Pomona College Museum of Art, Claremont, CA, USA

Catalogue, Accession or Reference Number: P2124

Date of Acquisition by the Institution: 1939

Exhibition History

Exhibited in the Downey Museum of Art, April 1976

GKS Reference Number: 24799