Brooch

Silver ornaments represent an important part of early exchange between Europeans, including fur traders, and First Nations peoples, especially in eastern and central Canada and the U.S.A. Initially, the main source of silver was British, French and Spanish coins. Most ornaments were produced by silversmiths of European origin in North America and Europe, and were actively traded only from 1760 to 1821. By the mid-18th century silver objects were produced in New England, Quebec and Montreal. Silver was used by First Nations peoples as a sign of rank. Silver ornaments in these styles continue to be produced by native silversmiths in central Canada and the U.S.A. Brooches were the most popular and numerous silver ornaments. They were worn on the chest, but also in the hair. Frequently, many were worn at once in rows across the chest.

trade; personal decoration; status

Repousse is a type of ornamentation formed in relief in metal by hammering up from the reverse or inner side.

Bird brooch with heart-shaped body and heart-shaped centre cutout and cross-pin. Cutouts for eyes and beak. Face engraved with circles and lines. Cross-pin attached to body. Hallmark in a rectangular cartouche.