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  ASSINIBOINE (STONE SIOUX) BEADED DRUM STICK, A GREAT FORM WITH AMERICAN FLAG IMAGERY, CA 1890, GROS VENTRE REGION
Dimensions (inches): Drumstick - 20" x 4", Frame - 27.5" x 11.25" x 5" deep
Description:
This ceremonial drumstick, completely decorated with beadwork, has a trapezoidal drop with larger green glass beads and colorful silk tassels. There is a beautifully shaped, oblong striker and brass beads with two larger tassels. Of particular interest are the American flags in the imagery, accompanied by geometric patterns. When tipped at a 45 degree angle, the form resembles a tomahawk.

Made sometime in the 1890’s, this is attributed to the Assinibone tribe, part of the Sioux Nation (a.k.a. Stone Sioux), which originated in the Gros Ventre region of the Rocky Mountains, in Wyoming, west of the Continental Divide.

Verbal provenance states that the stick was formerly in the collection of an attorney from Wolf Point, Montana, [specific identity not known] who often took beaded items in lieu of payment. He left the town in 1935 and took the collection with him to California where it remained in storage until 2014, though it occasionally went out on loan.

Mounting: The solid walnut molding with ebonized decoration dates to the period between 1870 and the 1890's. A shadowbox was made to accommodate the depth. The drum stick was mounted to a background of 100% cotton, black in color. The glazing is U.V. protective Plexiglas.

Condition: There is minor bead loss.
   
Primary Color: 1895
Earliest Date: No
Latest Date: 1885
For Sale Status: Sold
Price SOLD
E-mail: info@jeffbridgman.com
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