The Fashionable Horse: Ute Saddlebags and Saddle Blankets 1870–1925
Date of Award
2009
Document Type
Masters Research Paper
Degree Name
M.A.
Organizational Unit
School of Art and Art History, College of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences
First Advisor
Annette Stott
Keywords
Saddle blankets, Indian bead work, Ute Indians, Social life and customs, Bead work
Abstract
This research paper examines the creation, design, and functions of ten Ute double saddlebags and four beaded Ute saddle blankets fabricated between 1870 and 1925. Based on this sample and comparison with additional Basin and Plains tribal dressings, it appears that Ute saddlebags and blankets possess a combination of characteristics that reflect Ute territory, lifestyle, and aesthetics. These attributes, including fabrication from hide; similar rectangular dimensions; simple geometric beadwork patterns that emphasize triangles; preference for blue, white, and yellow beads; largely solid colored backgrounds; and back entries into the bags, work together to create a style that is specifically Ute.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Recommended Citation
Sell, Margaret Mary, "The Fashionable Horse: Ute Saddlebags and Saddle Blankets 1870–1925" (2009). Art and Art History: Master's Research Papers. 287.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/art_mrp/287