Pouch Appraisal

Hand-Beaded Butterfly Pouch

This is a small, rectangular, hand-beaded pouch or bag, likely of Indigenous or Native American craftsmanship, given the typical style of beadwork. It measures approximately 4-5 inches in height and width, judging by its scale in the hand holding it. The primary material is tiny glass seed beads, meticulously stitched onto a fabric backing, which appears to be black. The main body of the pouch is composed of uniform black beads, creating a dark, contrasting background for the vibrant design. A border of white beads frames the entire perimeter, providing a crisp edge. The central motif is a large butterfly, primarily executed in bright red beads, with accents of iridescent blue beads forming lines or veins on its wings. Small gold or yellow beads delineate the butterfly's antennae and some internal wing details, adding a subtle sparkle. In the upper right corner, a small, lighter pink beaded flower with a gold or yellow center complements the main design. The stitching of the beads appears dense and even, indicating a high level of skill and attention to detail. A thin, dark cord or loop is attached to one corner, suggesting it could be worn around the neck, attached to a belt, or used as a decorative pull. The overall condition appears good with no obvious signs of significant bead loss or damage, though closer inspection would be required to confirm the integrity of all stitches. The item exhibits fine craftsmanship, typical of traditional beadwork, and likely dates from the mid-to-late 20th century or possibly early 21st century.