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Eagle & American Flag Bag

Unknown

Plateau, Colville

ca. 2000

Leather

2007.17

On View

Cultural Continuation

Native American have adopted the design of various European and American symbols and used them for their own artistic expression. The reason behind the earliest usage of flag motifs may be attributed to several factors. Perhaps most importantly, many of the early tribes perceived the European and American flags as symbols of power and courage. This bag incorporates the bald eagle, an animal long held in highest respect and honor by Native Americans, with the traditional American flag and the flag in shield form. While the exact significance of this particular bag is unknown, one can speculate that it was intended as a display of honor and respect.

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