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VINTAGE MID-CENTURY LOOM-WOVEN SASH IN THE STYLE METIS FROM THE CANADIAN PROVINCE OF MANITOBA.
Manitoba province is rich in Metishistory.Many Metis are exceptional artists inbeadwork and embroidery, and one of the most distinctive and recognisable symbols oftheir culture is the Metis sash.The patterns and colors wovenintothe sash have come to represent various meanings and different groups withinthe Metis community.
The original sashes were very long, wide and woven byhand. Eventually loom woven versions became common. Most loom woven sashes are made by local loom weavers. That is the type of sash that is being presented here.
TheMétis style sashismade of wool and typically is close to 10 feet long. This sash is about 8 feet with an additional 20 inches of fringe making it close to the typical length of a Metis sash. The sash looks simple,like a long scarf, yet it has many uses.
The Red RiverMétisofManitoba shared deep, foundationalkinship and economic ties with the Cree(specifically Plains Cree).The Métis, Cree, and Assiniboine formed apowerful military and economic alliance known as the Iron Confederacyto manage the bison hunt and fur trade on the plains.
I acquired this sash in the early 1960s while attending a native american pow wow in upper Wisconsin. It became an integral part of of an 'old style' dance costume that I had assembled while in my youth.
With its unique design and historical significance, this sash would be a valuable addition to any collection of Native American artifacts or vintage clothing.
