Pair of Moccasins c. 1885

This pair of moccasins, created by an Arapaho artist around 1885, are a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of Native American cultures. The moccasins, on display at the Art Institute of Chicago, are meticulously adorned with intricate beadwork in a geometric pattern, utilizing white, blue, red, and green beads on a tanned leather base. The design features repeating triangular shapes and intricate lines, demonstrating the skill and precision of the beadwork. These moccasins not only served a practical purpose but also functioned as a form of artistic expression, reflecting the cultural heritage and identity of the Arapaho people.