Container for headdress ("war bonnet"), ca 1880 - 1920 ·  North America, Plains · ID: 3043346

Description

raw hide, natural colours (brown, green), bottom and flap separately worked, fixed by leather strips, painted with geometric patterns, old collection label “Indian .. (undecipherable)…ca 1700 190”, min. dam., fine tears, traces of usage.
“War bonnets” are feathered headgear traditionally worn by male leaders of the American Plains Indians Nations who have earned a place of great respect in their tribe. Originally they were sometimes worn into battle, but they are now primarily used for ceremonial occasions.