Mescalero Apache Painted Parfleche Box, circa 1870-1890

Antique 19th century Mescalero Apache painted parfleche case, circa 1880. Constructed of thick rawhide in an elongated rectangular form, the case is decorated across the lid with an unusual geometric pattern of connected, outlined diamonds. The design is incised into the surface of the hide, with the cut lines darkened by pigment and the diamond forms and connecting bands highlighted in yellow, red, and green.

The case is folded and secured along the edges with hide lacing. Pierced openings at the front retain hide thongs used to fasten the case closed. The restrained geometric decoration and rich, aged surface emphasize both the functional construction of the object and the strong graphic quality of the painted design.

Compact rawhide cases of this type served as protective containers for valued personal possessions and may have been used for the storage of documents, small personal items, or ritual paraphernalia. The combination of incised decoration, colored pigment, hide construction, and functional lacing distinguishes this as an unusual example of late 19th century Mescalero Apache hide work.