Arts and Crafts of the Native American Tribes

Arts and Crafts of the Native American Tribes is a comprehensive illustrated reference that explores the evolution of Native American culture and the regional variations of arts and crafts across the continent. It features contemporary and modern photographs, fine line illustrations, and step-by-step reconstructions, showcasing the techniques and artistry of the crafters. The book covers various crafts, including baskets, bone, antler, horn, decorative arts, featherwork, metalwork, pottery, shellwork, skinwork, stonework, textiles, and woodwork. It is an essential resource for ethnographers, historians, and collectors and is highly recommended for academic and public libraries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2022
Publisher: Firefly Books Ltd

“What makes this work exceptional is the color photography, use of illustrations and diagrams, and maps. One really gets the sense that this is a labor of love for the authors and that they did painstakingly thorough research while writing this book. This book is highly recommended for the Native American collections of academic and public libraries.”
Arts and Crafts of the Native American Tribes is an authoritative illustrated reference that has been carefully crafted to serve as a companion to Encyclopedia of Native Tribes of North America. It delves into the intricate details of how Native American culture evolved, while also considering the regional variations and similarities in the arts and crafts created by tribes across the continent. Contemporary and modern photographs, exquisite fine line illustrations, and step-by-step reconstructions showcase the techniques of manufacture and exhibit the remarkable skill and artistry of the crafters.

The book begins with a concise overview of the major cultural areas of North America, providing a survey of styles across time and regions. A substantial section follows, focusing on the living structures—such as huts, tipis, and igloos—and their associated crafts. These crafts include:

Baskets: Various weaving techniques, including plaiting, twining, and coiling
Bone, antler, and horn: Crafting implements, tools, pins, fishhooks, and decorative items
Decorative arts: Beadwork, porcupine quillwork, and other intricate decorative techniques
Featherwork: Bonnets, headdresses, and other feather-based creations
Metalwork: Copper, silver, iron, and goldsmithing
Pottery: Shaping and firing clay into various forms
Shellwork: Creating intricate designs with shells and other materials
Skinwork: Leatherworking, fur tanning, and rawhide crafting
Stonework: Carving and sculpting stone for tools, art, and ceremonial purposes
Textiles: Spinning, weaving, and other textile techniques
Woodwork: Totems, figures, masks, utensils, and woodworking with bark

Arts and Crafts of the Native American Tribes will remain a primary reference for ethnographers, historians, and collectors for years to come. It is an essential addition to any library serving academic and public audiences, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of Native Americans.

Dimension: 298 x 228 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780228103851
Edition number: Back in Print at a Great Price. ed.