Shoulder bag 1835 - 1845

This shoulder bag was made by a Delaware artist, using glass beads on fabric. The meticulous application of beads transforms the plain fabric into a shimmering surface, giving form to striking geometric patterns. The process of beading is incredibly labor intensive. Each tiny bead had to be individually sewn onto the fabric, demanding patience, dexterity, and an intimate understanding of material behavior. The maker’s hand is evident in every stitch, embodying a deep investment of time and skill. The bag is culturally significant as it is a testament to the enduring traditions of the Delaware people, and exemplifies the ways that Indigenous communities adapted new materials brought by European traders, like glass beads, into existing aesthetic practices. Considering the vast amount of labor involved, this bag challenges our notions about the perceived hierarchy between art and craft. It prompts us to reflect on the value we place on different forms of making, and appreciate the material richness of Indigenous artistic expression.