## Title

Vintage Native American Cradleboard Doll Mary Swallow Beadwork Cowrie Shells

## Item Specifics

* **Condition Description:** Good vintage condition with beautiful age-appropriate patina. The wood frame is intact with handwritten historical notes on the back. Beading and cowrie shells show some natural wear but remain largely secure. Fabric shows minor vintage fading and light dust from age. Please review the provided images for close-up details.

* **Origin:** Native American / First Nations Style

* **Artisan:** Inscribed "Mary Swallow"

* **Approximate Size:** 13”

* **Material:** Wood, Cloth, Seed Beads, Cowrie Shells

## Item Description

Up for sale is a beautiful vintage Native American style souvenir cradleboard doll, rich in character and folk art charm. This piece features a hand-crafted wooden back board with decorative red and yellow painted geometric details on the skids.

The swaddled doll features a soft cloth face with hand-stitched glass seed bead eyes and a red bead mouth. The dark fabric wrap is richly ornamented with vibrant rows of blue, orange, and yellow edge-beading, accented by columns of authentic sewn-on cowrie shells.

**Historical Provenance:**

The reverse side of the wooden cradleboard features an authentic vintage handwritten pencil inscription reading:

*"Mary Swallow / Happy Road Women"*

Additionally, a separate note reads *"DIED 1960"*, providing a poignant piece of history and helping to securely date the piece to the mid-20th century or prior.

**Measurements:**

* Total Length: Approx. 13”

A wonderful addition to any collection of vintage indigenous arts, mid-century folk art, or historic dolls.

Please view all high-resolution images provided to inspect the exact condition, craftsmanship, and handwritten details of this unique piece.