An exceptional tobacco bag with stylized bird and floral designs, this bag exhibits the tapering form with tabbed top that was in use by both the Nez Perce and Gros Ventre people. While exact tribal identification is always a problem, the floral elements on this bag are very similar to those found on women's capes among the Gros Ventre. The stylized bird is also very similar to those created by the Santee Sioux, Plains Ojibwa and Cree, neighbors of the Gros Ventres on the Northern Plains. The feathered elements are also common design elements of the Gros Ventre and their neighbors, the Assiniboine, all of which leads to a strong case for Gros Ventre origin. As such it is a highly desirable piece, since Gros Ventre material is difficult to find.

Paul Raczka March 14, 2000