$1,500.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
bLate 19th Century
Size 11" H x 4" W x 2.5" Th
A Wonderful Doll with Light Brown Hair and Finely Beaded Native Tanned Hide and Cloth Attachments with Glass Seed Beads in Vibrant Colors
Purchase in Arlington, Texas in the mid 1990s from Native Arts store
In Very Good Condition with Aged Ware
Apache beaded hide and cloth dolls are a fascinating aspect of Native American craftsmanship, particularly from tribes such as the Western Apache, Chiricahua Apache, and San Carlos Apache. These dolls are not just playthings but often serve as cultural artifacts that preserve traditional clothing, beadwork techniques, and ceremonial regalia. They combine natural materials like animal hide (typically buckskin or deerskin) with trade cloth (such as cotton or calico), and are adorned with glass seed beads in vibrant colors. Historically, they date back to the 19th century, with many examples from the late 1800s to mid-20th century, reflecting influences from trade goods introduced by European settlers. These dolls were handmade by Apache women, who drew on skills used for family clothing and regalia, and they sometimes represent specific figures like warriors, women in ceremonial dress, or children in cradles.
While some dolls were toys for children, others held educational or spiritual value, teaching younger generations about Apache identity, attire, and customs. Today, they are highly collectible, appearing in auctions, museums, and online marketplaces, with prices varying based on age, condition, and detail—ranging from a few hundred dollars for modern reproductions to thousands for antiques.
