Moccasin, Indigenous Peoples, North America

Pair of moccasin shoes made by a First Nation Huron woman from supple deerskin. These moccasins are decorated with panels of porcupine quillwork and metal cones, or ‘jingles’, containing dyed animal hair. The decoration was designed to be seen from the wearers’ point of view and represented spirit visions. Tassels and other decorations were believed to bring hunting success. Porcupine quillwork decoration was unique to North America and specific patterns and designs had different meanings for each Indigenous North American Tribe. These moccasins have a complicated decorative pattern and would probably have only been made for ceremonial dress.