An expressive pair of fully beaded hide moccasins attributed to the Lakota of the Northern Plains, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. Constructed with tall hide cuffs and ties, the moccasins are extensively decorated across both the uppers and soles with glass seed beads.
The beadwork is arranged upon a predominantly white field with strong red borders and repeating geometric devices worked in red, green, white, and touches of dark blue. Narrow diagonal bands animate the sides and soles, while compact stepped and rectangular motifs accent the toes and perimeter.
Long hide trailers extend from the rear seams of the moccasins. Commonly described as “dusters,” these elements trailed behind the heels and introduced movement when the moccasins were worn, particularly during dancing or ceremonial gatherings. Their survival adds considerably to the sculptural character and ethnographic interest of the pair. A small metal bell suspended from one of the hide ties provides an additional animated detail.
Fully beaded soles were labor-intensive and associated with status and special-occasion wear. Although examples were sometimes used for burial, they should not automatically be described as burial moccasins. The bold color, geometric organization, extensive beadwork, and heel dusters are characteristic of late 19th-century Plains artistic traditions.
Plains, circa 1890–1910. Hide, glass seed beads, cloth, hide ties, and metal.
Condition
Good condition considering age and material. Scattered bead loss is present throughout, with more concentrated losses to the soles and sides. The heel dusters remain present. One moccasin retains a small metal bell attached to its hide tie. The pair remains visually compelling and displays well.
Dimensions
Each approximately 10 inches long × 4 inches wide × 5 inches high
25.4 × 10.2 × 12.7 cm
Provenance
Private collection.