Pillow form whimsey in the form of a heart 1901

This whimsy pillow in the form of a heart, was made around 1901 by Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) artists. It’s a small decorative object made with fabric and glass beads, so you can imagine someone carefully placing each bead, choosing each color. The beads create a shimmering, slightly irregular surface. Look how the colors shift in different light. It's this kind of slow, deliberate work that feels so different from our fast-paced world today. I love the little birds facing each other, and the way the beads catch the light. I feel such a connection to the hand of the maker. This piece reminds me of the work of contemporary fiber artists like Sheila Hicks, who also use tactile materials to create a sense of intimacy and connection. It's a good reminder that art is an ongoing conversation.