We have spoken before about the historic practice of Indigenous makers using their skills and design work on items meant for a buying audience, particularly that of settlers and travellers. In this lot, we are treated to a charming example of this practice, not only for its design and colour, but also for its glimpse into a past social habit. We are not unfamiliar with business cards, a ubiquitous aspect of our contemporary, professional lives. For generations past however, a calling card was an essential thing to carry with you to follow in the confines of social protocol. This lot features a simple bi-fold design that is lined with velvet and bound in silk ribbon and a beaded trim, simple on the inside to maintain its usefulness. The outside however is festooned with beads, a simple floral design repeated in triplicate that is bordered over and over again with even more beads. This small case could be an ideal gift, as it is practical, and a small work to be treasured.

For a somewhat similar Needle Case in the Thaw Collection, see Gilbert T. Vincent, Sherry Brydon, and Ralph T. Coe, Masterpieces of American Indian Art from the Eugene and Clare Thaw Collection, (New York: Harry N. Abrams, 1995), object. no. T693, ill. p. 56.