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Sioux Flag Beaded Bifurcated Moccasins 19th C.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:300.00 USD Estimated At:1,250.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Sioux Flag Beaded Bifurcated Moccasins 19th C.
This is an outstanding set of patriotic flag, fully top beaded, Indian tanned hide moccasins with a beaded bifurcated tongue and hard parfleche soles, originating from the Sioux Native American Indians and dating to the 19th Century. The set shows an Indian tanned Buffalo Bison hide with medium height ankle, sinew sewn construction, and some trade thread. The moccasins show all period correct 1800’s glass trade seed cen beads in a traditional Buffalo Track geometric pattern, showcasing colors of chalk white, red, sky padre light blue, cobalt, Cheyenne pink, light blue, greasy yellow, and faceted metal. The set shows the unusual and desirable bifurcated or forked tongue, which is artfully adorned with beadwork and fancy beaded edge and is held up by the original Indian tanned hide tie straps. The base of the moccasins shows the hard parfleche rawhide, thick soles with a fine foot worn patina pattern, a true indication of authentic Indian Wars era use and age. The set shows various beaded patriotic US flags, an indication of late Indian Wars era, early Reservation era moccasins. At the ends of the bifurcated split tongues is fringe with rolled tin jingle dangle cones holding red dyed feather plumes, an artful finish. The set is in very well-preserved condition with little bead loss. Provenance: From the largest American Indian Antiquities collection in Montana, where it was found to be an authentic pre-1890 example. Measures 10”L sole by 4.25”W by 3”H ankle.