A rare painted Caribou skin garment, the indigenous peoples of the Quebec-Labrador peninsula, 19th century or earlier

comprised of three individually decorated hide sections, including a dress section (approximately 117cm. long, 46cm. wide), with polychrome wrapped hide tasselled fringing to one edge, the other shaped rectangular sections (robes) with pigmented geometric designs (148 by 155cm; and 181 by 160cm) (qty 3)

Generally some discolouration, marks, areas of wear and weakness including small splits, and small holes along edge of one of rectangular panels. Hide is pale coloured, with flexible handle, and soft to touch. Some areas of decoration in the hide stripped back and not soft to touch. Edges soft. It is not paper thin. Some surface marks. Generally dirty on front and reverse. The lot includes a dress section (approx. 117cm. long, 46cm. wide), with polychrome wrapped hide tasselled fringing to one edge, has small intentional holes around arm openings at the side, where separate sections of hide forming arms could be added, there is another hole on one side at very top near arm opening and a cord on each side of shoulders. The dress sheath has a join up the centre (as visible in the catalogue photograph). The top of the seam, ends with the opening up of the rest of the side panels. In addition to the side arm openings, there is a horizontal cut opening in the centre of the reverse of the dress, down from the top decorated edge, which is not visible in the catalogue photograph. The other shaped rectangular sections (robes) have pigmented geometric designs Robe ONE (148 by 155cm); has some shaped patches, large one in a corner, and a smaller oval shaped patch within main plain hide, the decorated section ends towards the centre of the hide, and at the top and bottom of this vertical line, there is an attached cord. Robe TWO and 181 by 160cm); has a eye shaped hole in one side, and some small holes towards centre edges of two sides. and condition as noted in above general overall comments. For further detailed photographs contact the department care of Gina.Tammaro@sothebys.com
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."