Other Columbia Plateau Bags
COLUMBIA PLATEAU
Storage Bag, late 19th-early 20th c.
Hemp, cornhusk, wool
Schlick collection
The fact that the extra wefts used to create false embroidery decoration are incorporated into the fabric of the bag encourages designs that feature primarily geometric shapes. This bag, for example, is decorated with a highly symmetrical pattern of triangles and rectangles, the contrasting shapes of which are further emphasized by their bright colors and bold outlines.
COLUMBIA PLATEAU
Storage Bag, ca. 1850
Indian hemp, cornhusk
Schlick collection
This bag is very similar to the Oberlin bag and probably nearly as old. Sturdy in construction, tightly woven to keep out dust, and naturally resistant to insects, bags like this stayed in use for many years as the repair adjacent to a large scorch mark suggests.
UMATILLA
Leather-topped Pouch with Central Design, ca. 1970
Cornhusk, leather
Schlick collection
COLUMBIA PLATEAU
Handbag, early 20th c.
Corn husk, wool, leather, cotton twine
Schlick collection
The intricate design of roosters, eagles, and butterflies embroidered in colorful woolen yarns on this early 20th century handbag is quite unusual and must have had special meaning for the weaver who created it.
UMATILLA
Belt purse with Eagle and Shield Design, late 20th c.
Corn husk, wool, leather, cotton twine
Schlick collection
More commonly seen in beaded bags than in twined ones, this patriotic eagle and shield motif may have been designed for a Native American veteran of the United States armed forces.