Plateau Hide Painted Parfleche

ca. 1870

1.75" H x 9.375" L x 12.25" W 

A fine, small Parfleche envelope with geometric painting; showing deep patina of age and use.

In Very Good Condition

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