Band
About this object
History of use
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.
Cultural context
trade; personal decoration; status
Physical description
Matching pair of armbands with overlapping ends, adjustable for size with a series of holes into which a small hook fits. End held in place with a sliding band. Plain line engraved borders and three engraved curvilinear motifs on each band.
Categories
Materials
Date Made
Fur Trade (1760-1821)
Date Acquired
9 Sep 1993
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
Measurements
Part a: 3 cm x 10.5 cm
part b: 3 cm x 10 cm
Object Number
1590/271 a-b