Bow Case and Quiver

ca. 1875

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

This elaborate bow case and quiver is both a functional object and a complex sculptural form. The lustrous skins of three otters, a revered animal, provide the foundation for the object, and their tails form the long tabs ornamented with geometric beadwork. Open fields of red trade cloth enhance the texture of the beads. This case and quiver were likely reserved for dress occasions. The profusion of trade materials and fine workmanship indicate the owner’s wealth and prosperity.

Artwork Details

Overview

Exhibition History

Title: Bow Case and Quiver
Date: ca. 1875
Geography: United States, Montana
Culture: Crow
Medium: Otter skin, glass beads, wool cloth, ermine skin
Dimensions: Length: 55 1/4 in. (140.3 cm)
Width: 25 in. (63.5 cm)
Depth: 5 in. (12.7 cm)
Classification: Hide-Implements
Credit Line: Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, Massachusetts (E1918)
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing