Beaver Pendant
About this object
History of use
Initially, the main sources of silver were British, French, and Spanish coins. Most ornaments were produced by silversmiths of European origin in North America and Europe. By the mid-18th century silver objects were produced in New England, Quebec and Montreal. Silver ornaments continue to be produced by native silversmiths in Central Canada and the USA. Animal imagery is a significant part of woodland first nations tradition, but no documented instance has been found of the use of animal effigies in trade. The place of effigies in woodlands culture is not known.
Cultural context
personal ornamentation
Physical description
Solid silver beaver with crosshatched tail, a cartouche in the middle of the back and a hole at the top of the head.
Date Made
1760-1821
Date Acquired
9 Sep 1993
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
Measurements
0.2 x 4.3 x 1.6 cm
Object Number
1590/29