Kiowa Beaded Hide Cradle

thread sewn in opaque and translucent shades of white, red, yellow, pink, light and dark blue glass seed beads, with a pattern of stepped diamonds flanked by concentric losenges, and a series of rectangles enclosed by zigzags on the hood, trimmed across the top with beaded tassels fastened with miniature metal attachments including a chalice and a chicken, mounted on  a pair of pointed wood boards, each decorated with brass shoe buttons forming a cross; a cut hide panel below painted with yellow ochre.

Private Illinois Collection
Acquired from Grimmer-Roche

Very good to excellent original condition with minor wear associated with age. This includes very minor bead loss, slight tear to the cloth lining near the top of the bonnet (evidenced in catalogue detail image) and slight surface abrasion to the pointed wood boards
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 discussion of Kiowa cradles see Batkin, et al, 1995, p. 46: "Highly decorated lattice cradles, both functional and handsome, are masterpieces of design. More than that, they represent the deep bonds of affection uniting Kiowa families. The cradle was usually made by an aunt or other female relative for the infant. Her gift signified the joy and solidarity of related kin at the coming of new life....Bright metal ornaments, bead chains, charms and other attachments frequently hung from the upper sides of cradles, adding beauty and protection for the child within...The Kiowas are known to favor bilateral asymmetry, often using different colors...or different designs on each side of an object...Common to all was the vivid and imaginative use of color."