Boot whimsy, “From Niagara Falls” with bird and flower design

Datec. 1890-1900

Artist Currently Unidentified

CultureSkarù·rę’ / Tuscarora

MediumClear and pink beads on blue cloth with white border

DimensionsOverall: 8 x 5 1/4 x 1 1/2 in. (20.3 x 13.3 x 3.8 cm)

Credit LineGift of Edward J. Guarino in honor of Mauricette Casile

On View

Not on view

Period19th /20th c

Classification(s)

Decorative Art

InscribedInscribed (on front, in clear/white beads): FROM NIAGARA FALLS.

Vassar Exhibitions

Forms of Exchange: Art of Native Peoples from the Edward J. Guarino Collection

My Grandmother's Whispers: Indigenous Prints and Beadwork

Exhibition HistoryFrances Lehman Loeb Art Center at Vassar College Poughkeepsie, NY "Forms of Exchange: Native American Art from the Edward J. Guarino Collection" January 24- September 20, 2006

Label TextThis boot-shaped pincushion exhibits traditional Tuscarora beading, marked by raised layers of clear beads and decorated with the words “From Niagara Falls,” indicating its place in the tourist trade. Throughout the 19th century, Indigenous women produced beaded items such as pincushions, pouches, and bags to be purchased by tourists. These souvenirs became such an essential component of the local economy that the government granted exclusive rights to the Tuscarora to sell souvenirs at Niagara Falls, allegedly as a reward for the tribe’s loyalty during the American Revolution. Facing increased demand for beaded souvenirs, Native women began producing designs targeted towards potential buyers. Beadworkers adapted their traditional designs to incorporate Victorian motifs such as botanical patterns, birds, and a characteristic excess of ornament. While the souvenir trade provided financial opportunities for Indigenous women, it came with a perceived loss of authenticity. Techniques once reserved for intertribal use were employed to create marketable items for white settlers. On reservations, missionaries took advantage of unlivable conditions to harness the artistic labor of Indigenous women under the guise of economic opportunity. Although originating from adverse conditions, the souvenir trade became an inextricable influence on Haudenosaunee artistic tradition.

Terms

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email loebcollections@vassar.edu