Plains Hide Painted Parfleche

ca. 1880

5.75" H x 11.5" L x 2.625" W

Hand Made out of Animal Hide and Painted in Red, Tan, Beige and Blue Colors in a Geometric Design

In Very Good Condition with Light Aged Wear

A Plains hide painted parfleche is a traditional rawhide container created by Indigenous women of the North American Plains tribes (such as the Lakota, Cheyenne, Blackfeet, and Kainai). The term "parfleche" (pronounced "par-flesh") comes from French words meaning "to parry" or "deflect an arrow," reflecting the material's toughness. It refers to a folded or envelope-shaped bag made from untanned animal hide—typically bison or buffalo—painted with vibrant geometric designs. These were essential for nomadic lifestyles, providing lightweight, weatherproof storage and transport for goods like pemmican (dried meat mixed with fat and berries), clothing, tools, medicines, and ceremonial items. They were often made in pairs and hung from saddles or travois (drag frames pulled by horses or dogs).

Provenance:  From the Len and Toni Wood Private Collection, Laguna Beach, California