Northern Plains Quilled and Beaded Hide War Shirt, Crow or Nez Perce

of classic construction, composed of two finely tanned hides, seamed across the top with a transverse neck opening, overlaid across the shoulders with fringed hide strips, each decorated with porcupine quillwork in yellow, and narrow panels of glass pony beads in blue, white and translucent red,  the arms similarly decorated in blue and white beadwork, the neck flaps edged in white pony beads; short cut hide fringe along the waist and remains of red pigment on the bibs.

Collected by Father John Higginbotham, an Irish priest who was ministering in North America between the 1840’s and 1860’s, based in St. Louis, Missouri.  Following his death, this shirt and other Plains Indian relics were bequeathed to Mount Melleray Abbey, County of Waterford, North Ireland, where they remained until recent time.
Sold Christie's London, June 1983, lot 95

The hide is in very good overall condition with typical wear for its age and from use. The quillwork channel on the hide strips is all but gone. Beadwork is in very good condition.
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 complete Nez Perce Indian shirt of this type, see AKICITA: Early Plains and Woodlands Indian Art from the Collection of Alexander Acevedo, 1983, No. 7.