Native American Clothing: An Illustrated History

Brasser, a retired curator and an expert in the art and design of indigenous North Americans, has picked some 300 examples (from among thousands of artifacts residing in museums and private collections) for this lush, beautiful volume. Brasser breaks the collection into 12 regional groups which represent unique habitats, from the semi-tropical cultures of the Southeast to those of the High Arctic, moving in the direction of European contact, from south to north and from east to west). Each chapter includes a detailed map, the names and localities of various tribal groups, and relevant history, including what is known of pre-contact histories and the region's interaction with Europeans. Throughout, Brasser includes paintings made by European artists (from the early 16th through the mid-19th centuries) illustrating how native peoples were clothed and decorated at the time of initial contact. Historical essays describe a series of mostly tragic events, emphasizing the improbable survival of so many beautiful garments, bowls, rugs, bags, belts, and other artifacts. Featuring an amazing breadth of clothing design, motif, and technique, Brasser's volume makes an excellent cross-collection resource for anyone interested in indigenous art or Native American history. 300 color and b&w photos.