This exquisite Lakota archery set, crafted by an unidentified artist in the early 1900s, is a testament to the rich tradition of Lakota artisanship. The set includes a beaded bow case and quiver, complete with arrows and a bow, and is constructed from a variety of materials that speak to the resourcefulness and skill of its creator. The bow itself, measuring 46.5 inches in length, is made from the resilient Osage orange wood, known for its flexibility and strength, ideal for the steady release of an arrow.

The attention to detail in the beadwork is particularly striking. Glass beads, meticulously woven, adorn the bow case and quiver, displaying brilliant patterns and designs. The use of concentric diamonds or triangles might symbolize tipis or the Black Hills, a sacred area for the Lakota. Colours also carry specific connotations; blue might signify wisdom or the sky, red could denote war or courage, and green often represents the earth or endurance.

The use of wool fabric and thread in the construction of the quiver demonstrates a blend of traditional and traded materials, a common practice in the period of the early 20th century. This mix of materials indicates a period of transition and adaptation for the Lakota people, as they integrated new resources into their longstanding artistic traditions.

Each arrow is fletched with carefully placed feathers, likely from local birds, secured with sinew. These feathers, along with the use of hard stone for arrowheads, show the artist's deep understanding of both form and function, ensuring that each arrow was as practical as it was beautiful.