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Offering this antique Native American Iroquois "whimsy" or souvenir picture frame.
These items were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and were made for the tourist trade, often near Niagara Falls.
The item appears to be a piece of Iroquois or Mohawk beaded whimsy, a type of folk art produced by Native American artisans for sale to tourists.
Created in a horseshoe shape, which was a common motif in these souvenir items, symbolizing good luck. The intricate, raised beadwork features green and silver/clear glass beads sewn onto a fabric base.
Many of these beaded items were made as picture frames, pincushions, or small bags. The central red fabric area suggests it was intended to hold a small photograph or memento.
Circa late 19th Century to early 1900’s.
Please see pictures for details and measurements.
