Parfleche Date Unknown

This Parfleche was likely made by a Wind River Shoshone artist; these indigenous communities have historically lived in the Wyoming area. Parfleches were traditionally made from rawhide, which was then painted with natural pigments. In Plains cultures, women often held the responsibility for creating these containers, decorating them with geometric designs that held significant cultural meaning. This particular piece features bold triangles and contrasting colours, meticulously arranged. These patterns weren't merely decorative; they were visual languages that conveyed stories, histories, and the worldview of the community. The abstract designs reflect a deep connection to the land and the cosmos, embodying a form of cultural expression unique to the Plains people. The creation and use of Parfleches were integral to the social and economic lives of these communities, and their patterns embody both utility and symbolic communication. These objects are imbued with the identities and histories of their makers and users.