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Carved and painted peyote box
Native American
Carved and painted wooden peyote box with brass hardware
Delores Thompson

Wooden peyote box with bronze latch and wooden fastener / Joseph Rice

Essay/Description

Light wooden box, constructed with brass nails at base and up the sides, with brass screws to secure brass loop for hasp closure on front. Red fabric (possibly synthetic velvet) is glued to the interior of the bottom of the box. Four brass hinges and screws attach lid to the box, the hinges are evenly spaced across the back, and a brass handle is attached to the lid with two metal washers and two metal screws. A wooden dowel secures the lid to the box.

Curatorial Remarks

The peyote box was used to carry a roadman's kit which would typically include a platform for peyote, a rattle, fan, staff, drumstick, and a sage holder.

Tags: peyote box
People: Native American Church
Places: Oklahoma
Purpose: ceremonial use

From interviews with Dr. Garrick Bailey, 2018-2020 University of Tulsa, Professor Emeritus of Anthropology

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Title(s): 
Wooden peyote box with bronze latch and wooden fastener
Creator(s): 
Joseph Rice (Artist)
Culture: 
Native American; Sac & Fox
Date: 
1998
Materials/Techniques: 
wood, metal, felt
Classification: 
Object Type: 
Credit Line: 
Purchased with funds from Phillips Petroleum Grant
Accession No: 
84.2953a-b
Previous Number(s): 
TL1998.12.6; 84.2953 a-b
Department: 
Not On View

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