Kiowa Beaded Hide Cradle, Southern Plains

hide, glass beadwork, wood, mineral pigments, calico cloth, brass tacks.

George Shaw, Aspen CO
Hugh and Gay Eaton Collection, Aspen CO, acquired from the above

Very good condition, with typical wear for age and from use including some lose and/or missing beadwork, especially along one lower edge, and minor soiling around the hood.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

With gratitude to Barbara Hail, and Carl and Vanessa Paukeigope Jennings, who in written correspondence regarding this cradle identified the baby in the archival image illustrated herein as belonging to Maggie Jackson (Kiowa), also known as Maggie Smoky Jackson. Maggie's daughter, Lois Smoky, is shown in a cradle in the frontispiece of "Gifts of Pride and Love: Kiowa and Comanche Cradles" written by Barbara Hail, and members of Kiowa and Comanche cradle-making families. Her mother and grandmother, Makonte (Roman Nose), were excellent craftswomen known for their beadwork (Hail, 2000, p. 4).  It is possible that Maggie or her mother made both cradles. 

Also see Sotheby's New York, May 2014, lot 16.