Important Iroquois Beaded Needle Case 4 X 2 1/2 inches ca. 1850!!

A vintage Iroquois beaded needle case sold at such tourist destinations such as Niagara Falls. This is a well utilized example about 4 inches by 2 1/2 inches high with the beadwork pattern in a more traditional early floral style sometimes typical for the 1850 and after period. The style is reminiscent of other beaded items before 1850. This early Iroquois style was typical for Native use as well as geared heavily to the tourist trade. Earlier than the florate design in raised beadwork done over a paper pattern cutout. Wonderful early greasy beads from Italy in Pony Trader Blue, Mustard, Desert Pink and other early colors in a size 14 seed bead. It has suffered loss in the beadwork that could easily be repaired, and as such is priced accordingly. A wonderful addition to any Native American collection, and represents a time when Native people adapted to a new economy when there previous way of making a living could no longer be pursued or sustain them. With the Fur Trade all but gone, and Indian land overrun with settlements, Native people turned to selling their crafts on the popular Tourist markets frequented by an International clientele, offering souvenir arts at places like Niagara Falls, and railroad stations, fairs, and even door-to-door. A new Native economy as a result of necessity that often was the sustaining force for whole families. Own this piece of history, and the rich story it represents.