This outstanding, Beaded Hide, Miniature Saddle Bags measure approx. 6 1/4 long (including the hand cut, rawhide fringe) and 1 1/4” wide. We have puzzled over this fascinating piece of Sioux beadwork – there is a 1 3/4” opening on one edge of the Saddlebags and a small opening opposite the longer one at the center of the other edge. This small slit features a small “loop” handle and our first thought was that this was a Miniature Sheath / Scabbard of some type or even perhaps a Miniature Bow Case. But given the shape and symmetry of the design and the fringe on both ends, we came to believe that these were a representation of Saddlebags – made for a child’s toy of other ceremonial purpose. The Saddle Bags feature traditional, Sioux beadwork designs executed using chalk white, medium blue, greasy yellow and semi-translucent red seed beads.

    This charming and fascinating, Bead Decorated, Miniature Saddlebags is thread and sinew sewn by hand and made of a soft, brain tanned hide. There are beaded panels on each end and both ends feature a hand cut, rawhide fringe.

    The Miniature Saddlebags offered here are unconditionally guaranteed original and of the period. It is NOT a reproduction or modern recreation but an original Plains Indian Miniature Saddlebag crafted around the turn of the 20th century. The Bag comes with our “no questions asked” return privilege and our lifetime guarantee of authenticity. It is guaranteed to be deemed authentic, original and as described by any qualified third party authentication service.

    This very rare and original, ca1890’s Sioux Bead Decorated, Miniature Saddlebags are in very good condition and display beautifully. The hide elements are well preserved – soft and supple with slight stiffing to the fringe on one end. There is a small repair at one end of the larger opening but no other physical damage or repair of any kind. The beaded panels are beautiful and very well preserved with no bead loss or damage. Please see the scans below for a good representation of the form and the condition of this turn of the 20th century, Miniature Beaded Saddlebags.

    A very rare and original, ca1890’s Native American Sioux Indian Miniature Bead Decorated Hide Saddle Bags and a fantastic addition to any collection!!!

    Be sure to check out this seller’s other auctions for a number of other outstanding 19th and early 20th century Native American Indian Artifacts which are also being offered for sale this week on eBay!!