TWO PARFLECHES ASSOCIATED WITH THE PLAINS AND PLATEAU NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES. Two vintage decorated parfleches which are cultural objects, primarily associated with the Plains and Plateau Native American tribes. A parfleche is a traditional, durable carrying case or container made from rawhide, typically from buffalo (bison) or elk, especially among nomadic tribes. They served as the "suitcases" of the Plains Indians, used to store and transport essential belongings. Historically made by women, the rawhide is prepared (cleaned and scraped) and stretched to dry, which makes it stiff, tough, and durable, offering a degree of water resistance. The rawhide is then cut into a shape (like a large rectangle), painted, and finally folded into an envelope-like case, box, or cylinder, often secured with leather thongs. They are decorated with bold, colorful geometric designs, like the red, green, and blue patterns you see. These designs were unique to the tribe, and sometimes the individual, and could carry symbolic or even narrative meaning. - top fold size: 14.5 x 25.5 inches. Estimate $400-600
In fair condition. The opening is very fragile. Item has a lot of smudges and scratches.
