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Black Leggings Society of the Kiowa cape decorated with military name and hand print outlines / Harding Big Bow

Essay/Description

A rectangular piece of red twill with folded and hand sewn hems. A strip of white silk ribbon is sewn along the bottom edge of what appears to be the back side. The front side features two hand shaped decorative designs, almost life size. These are cut out of white crepe and glued down. They are outlined in a line of partially glued, partially sewn silver sequins, silver glitter, and blue beads. The back side of the piece suggests that it was made from an item of military origin. "Sgt. L. Pennah U. S. Army" on back. White and yellow chain stitched machine embroidery with paper stabilizer shows from beneath a hem. There are holes throughout and the hem on one side has become ragged.

Curatorial Remarks

This is an Osage hand blanket. Osage hand blankets seem to have been influenced by the Nez Pierce after they were removed to Indian territory. They were captured in Montana. This is a U.S. army issued blanket with the name "SGT L Pennah U.S. Army"
Tags: Handblanket, red, rhinestone
People: Osage
Places: Southern Plains, Oklahoma
Purpose: domestic use, ceremonial events

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

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Title(s): 
Black Leggings Society of the Kiowa cape decorated with military name and hand print outlines
Creator(s): 
Harding Big Bow (Artist)
Unknown (Artist)
Culture: 
Native American; Kiowa (artist and user)
Date: 
early 20th century
Materials/Techniques: 
cotton, silk, plastic or metal, glue
Object Type: 
Credit Line: 
Gift of Mr. Harding and Mrs. Pearl Big Bow
Accession No: 
99.230
Previous Number(s): 
TL1997.28.1; tl1997.28.1
Department: 
Not On View

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