Box (Hat box)

Description

This oval, lidded hat box was made by a Native American artist, possibly from the Penobscot culture of northern New England. The box is made of tree bark which has been stained red, and features intricate etchings of plants and geometric designs. Most of the designs have been left uncolored so that the light tone of the exposed bark contrasts with the red background, though selected leaf forms have been painted blue-black. This box was most likely made for trade rather than to be used by the maker. Objects made for use by non-Indigenous consumers formed an important part of the annual income of many Indigenous artisans in the 19th century. Basket and box makers often traveled a set route annually or bi-annually to sell their wares in towns throughout New England and Canada, as well as in a variety of tourist locations such as Niagara Falls.