Well-known for their artistry, including beadwork, it is little wonder that Wolastoqiyik artisans were able to translate their skills to trade objects so easily. The broad area of this handkerchief case (the base being a wool that has retained its deep red colour), is beautifully symmetrical in its design: a densely beaded design that still leaves some breathing room between the flowers and leaves, all punctuated by white beads in a variety of sizes. The inside of the case is lined with birch bark and bound with silk ribbon; the edges are then further decorated in white beads for a lace edge effect. A finely crafted object, the imagination can easily place this work on a vanity table along with other items of pride.

References: For an overview of Indigenous floral beading, see Lois S. Dubin, Floral Journey: Native North American Beadwork, (Los Angeles: Autry National Center of The American West), 2014. For further examples of Maliseet decorative work, see Gaby Peppetier, ed., Traditions Décoratives Micmac & Maliseet Decorative Traditions, (Saint John: The New Brunswick Museum, 1977).