Early Northern Plains Beaded and Fringed Hide Dress

of classic construction with a transverse neck opening, overlaid across the shoulders with a hide strip, stitched in black and white glass pony beads, with a series of linear and cross-bar motifs, a bright blue beaded band along the hem, additional blue beaded squares trimmed with cut hide suspensions on the bodice.

Reportedly given to Alexander H.H. Stuart while he served as Secretary of the Interior (1850-1853)
By family descent to the current owner

Overall good condition with typpical wear for age and use. The dress required patch-restoration beneath one arm and the back of the other. Restoration was performed by Bill Plitt and before/after images are availaible.
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.

For a related example see Sotheby's New York, May 2006, lot 203.