Maskimot; bag

Maskimot; bag

Maskimot; bag

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Introduction

This relative, a small hide ᒪᐢᑭᒧᐟ maskimot (bag), features a rounded bottom. The front of this relative is covered with blue stroud and ornamented with two horizontal bands of woven porcupine quills and glass beads in a geometric pattern, as well as a painted motif on the back of the maskimot. Although the origins of this relative are not certain, it is likely from the 17th or 18th century and may be attributed to the Nehiyawak (Western Plains Cree).

This relative currently resides in the National Museum of Ireland. 

Name of Maker(s): Unrecorded
Maker role: Artist
Nation of Maker: Nehiyawak (Western Plains Cree)
Nation of Origin

Nehiyawak-(Western Plains Cree)

Date Made or Date Range: 1750-1809
Materials

Hide, blue stroud, porcupine quills, medium blue slightly cylindrical glass beads, metal cones, red wool yarn, red, white and black paint.

Techniques or Format

Hide pouch covered with blue stroud on the front, two woven bands of porcupine quills with geometric decoration sewn on, hide fringe wrapped with porcupine quills.

Motifs and Patterns

Geometric designs.

Dimensions: 21 × 16.5 × 0 cm
Condition: Very poor, stiff and scrunched up from water damage.
Reasons for connecting this relative with particular times, materials, styles and uses

This information was informed by the painted motifs on the back of the bag.

Current Location: National Museum of Ireland
Catalogue, Accession or Reference Number: 1880.1914
Date of Acquisition by the Institution: 1880
Who the Institution Acquired the Relative or Heritage Item From: Royal Dublin Society.
GKS Reference Number: 26819
How to Cite this Item

Maker, Name unrecorded. Bag. GRASAC ID: 26819. National Museum of Ireland Collection, 1880.1914.

Record Creation Context

This record was augmented by Dana Murray on November 14, 2024. It was informed by notes and images collected during a GRASAC research trip to the National Museum of Ireland on July 23, 2010. Participants included Alan Corbiere, Ruth Phillips, Crystal Migwans, Nikolaus Stolle, and Rachel Head, who were assisted by Padraig Clancy and Emma Crosby.

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