le'éptit wax̣ mitáat, 23 - Beaded Pin

This hand beaded pin measures 2 1/2 inches in diameter. The pin features moose hide, 24 karat gold-plated beads, and fire-polished Czech glass beads. The moose hide background is hand-cured, tanned by a First Nations family in Canada. The brass hardware on the back allows for this pin to be easily placed on an article of clothing, a hat, or handbag.

Black niimíipuu (Nez Perce) artist Kellen Trenal beaded and assembled this pin by hand. The artist honors the craftsmanship of the tanned moose hide by allowing it to speak just as much as the section embellished with specialty bead embroidery. Purposeful placement of the beaded design gives equal value to all the materials showcased in this piece.

This pin is a part of the Moose Hide Freestyles Collection and is authenticated by the artist signature on the back.