Gauntlets

ca.1890

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

These gauntlets are bursting with color and texture. They feature late 1800s Sioux-Métis (people of both Plains Indian and French Canadian descent) floral designs as well as flags and roosters. The artist relied on her skill as a bead worker to create a quilted effect on the cuffs. Soldiers of the U.S. Cavalry introduced gauntlets on the Plains in the 1870s. A Plains man probably wore these gloves with a beaded vest, leggings, and moccasins. Occasions like Fourth of July celebrations called for such festive wear.

Artwork Details

Overview

Exhibition History

Title: Gauntlets
Date: ca.1890
Geography: United States, North or South Dakota
Culture: Sioux-Métis
Medium: Native-tanned leather, glass and brass beads, cotton cloth
Dimensions: 8 × 14 1/2 in. (20.3 × 36.8 cm)
Classification: Hide-Costumes
Credit Line: Collection of Berte and Alan Hirschfield
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing