So-called trade bracelets have been made in Seattle since the early 1900's, and sold primarily to the coastal tribes. They are often used as potlatch gifts. The early patterns tended to be narrow, with the design on the terminals. Recent designs tend to be wider, with the design centered on the wide middle of the bracelet. Beaver is shown on this sterling silver bracelet designed by Bill Wilson, a Tlingit raised in Hoonah, Alaska. The bracelet is struck from the original die made in the early 1900's. The Beaver Trade Bracelet has a devolved length of 7 inches. Made in USA. |