Tags
Iroquois style slit pouch, 1700
This artwork is part of a private collection and is not available for purchase. It serves as an educational benchmark for historical accuracy. To see items currently available for acquisition, please visit our Available Works section
Maker: Lukáš Navrátil
Materials: Wet-scraped brain-tanned hide, naturally dyed porcupine quills (madder root), cotton thread, animal sinew, antique pound beads.
Made in: 2026
Description: Slit pouch inspired by an original currently housed in the Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac in Paris. The exact date and location of the acquisition of this pouch are unknown; the catalog card merely states that the pouch originates from the St. Lawrence River Valley region. Slit pouches of a similar style appear in period paintings of Iroquois chiefs dating from the early 18th century, though it is possible the pouch is even older. It is likely the oldest surviving slit pouch in existence and also the smallest, with the dimensions of the original measuring approximately 8×30 cm. Most surviving slit pouches are considerably wider and longer. Slit pouches were used to carry small items such as projectiles and shooting supplies, tobacco, and similar necessities. They were worn tucked behind the belt, hanging folded in half, but are also frequently depicted in period artwork draped over powder horns.