Blackfoot Beaded and Fringed Hide Shirt and Leggings

of classic design, composed of two finely tanned hides, seamed across the top with a transverse neck opening, painted with black stripes on the sleeves and a series of blue tadpoles on the body, overlaid on the chest and back with a circular medallion in pink, greasy yellow, black and two shades of blue against a white glass beadwork ground, with a radiant design, the sleeves and shoulders overlaid with hide strips, sinew sewn in similar colors, with classic diamond and triangular motifs, trimmed with winter-white ermine drops; together with a pair of leggings, painted with a series of black stripes, overlaid with beaded strips.

Acquired from the descendants of One Star, Blackfoot

Private Collection for more than 40 years

Very good overall condition with typical signs of age and use. There is slight staining on the hide as well as small punctures. Some of the ermine drops are quite worn.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a related example and discussion of Blackfoot shirts see Horsecapture and Horsecapture, 2001, pp. 50-51.