Gifts from the Ocean - American Indian

Gifts from the Ocean is 30 x 36, oil on canvas.
Plains women made dresses out of skins, wool and cloth and would decorate them with natural local  items and trade items.
Elk eye teeth were often used.The number of teeth used was a sign of wealth. A cheaper substitute for teeth were cowrie shells which were a Trade item. The shape of the shell was similar to teeth and gave the same decorative effect.
This painting shows a red velvet dress with many cowrie shells
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