The "keyhole" design element on the vamp of these moccasins is reminiscent of the early quill-wrapped horsehair technique used in the upper Missouri region in the early 1830s. The rosette itself contains the design elements often referred to as the "hourglass with circles" and is found on early shirt chest rosettes as well as blanket strips and leggings. This pair is a later example, evidenced by the complexity of the design elements around the edge of the rosette and the rest of the beaded design. A prime example of Cheyenne beadwork, this pair of moccasins shows the artistic quality and technical excellence for which the Cheyenne are noted, (Conn 1963 and Feder 1980).

Paul Raczka
October 2, 2000