Whimsey in the form of a purse 1916

This whimsically beaded purse was created around 1916 by a Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) artist. These so-called "whimsies" reflect a fascinating intersection of Native art traditions and the demands of the tourist market that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Consider the act of creation itself. Native artists, primarily women, adapted their skills in beadwork to create objects that would appeal to non-Native consumers, often incorporating imagery and styles that were considered "fashionable" at the time. The inclusion of the year "1916" on this purse might be read as a way to personalize the object, making it a unique souvenir for the buyer. But it also serves as a marker of time, reminding us of the complex historical relationship between Native communities and the dominant culture. This purse encapsulates a story of adaptation, resilience, and the ongoing negotiation of cultural identity in the face of external pressures.