Shirt c. 1900

This shirt, made by an anonymous maker, is constructed of tanned hide, decorated with beads, ribbons, and tassels. The material itself provides inherent qualities of suppleness, texture and warmth, and the color of the tanned hide gives the garment an earthy tone, while the added embellishments contribute to its visual interest. The process of tanning hide would have been labor intensive, as it involves multiple steps to convert raw animal skin into durable leather. This involves removing hair, softening the hide, and then preserving it. The intricate beadwork, ribbonwork and tassels require considerable handwork and skill. These techniques reflect a long tradition of artistry passed down through generations. Considering the time and effort that went into this shirt, it transcends mere clothing, becoming a testament to the artistry, skill, and cultural traditions of its maker. It makes you think about value, and how we distinguish between art and craft.