Match safe whimsey 1909

This small, intricately beaded "match safe whimsey" from 1909, made by a Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) artist, is an example of the unique beadwork artistry practiced by this Indigenous group. The piece, housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, features a central design of two circular forms surrounded by floral motifs, all crafted from amber-colored glass beads. The year "1909" is incorporated into the design, highlighting the contemporary influence on this traditional craft. This match safe, with its intricate details and delicate fringe, represents a significant piece of Haudenosaunee beadwork, showcasing the artistry of this cultural heritage.