Button Blanket
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A Native American tradition introduced after European contact , Button Blankets are particular to the Pacific Northwest tribes. Rather than sleeping equipment, the blankets are used as capes and gifts at ceremonial dances and potlatches.[1]
The blankets were originally acquired from the Hudsons Bay Company traders during the mid-19th century[2], and decorated with buttons made from abalone or dentalium shells.[3] The central crest typically portrayed a symbol of the wearer's family heritage.[4]
Later blankets were blue duffle, with red stroud for the appliqued patterns which were outlined in modern, or mother of pearl, buttons.
[edit] References
- ^ The Tsimshian
- ^ Windspeaker profiles of outstanding Aboriginal people
- ^ Civilization.ca - Treasures Gallery - Button blankets
- ^ Civilization.ca - Grand Hall - Haida house (interior)
 |
This article relating to Indigenous peoples of North America is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |
