Plains Indians Parfleche Case & Strike-A-Light Pouch – Hand-Painted Rawh

A vibrant set of Native American parfleche artifacts, likely from a Plains tribe, consisting of a flat document envelope and a small strike-a-light pouch. Both items are made from rawhide and feature bold, hand-painted geometric designs in traditional mineral-based pigments. The document case is bordered with red felt and tied with rawhide lacing, while the smaller pouch has a flap closure and vivid quadrant motifs.

The term parfleche—from the French parer (to parry) and flèche (arrow)—was used by French traders to describe the tough, shield-like quality of the rawhide. These pieces were crafted primarily by women from Plains tribes such as the Lakota, Cheyenne, or Crow. Designs often held symbolic meaning and were passed down through generations. The larger case likely served to hold documents or sacred items; the smaller pouch may have carried fire-starting tools or small valuables.

Materials:
Rawhide, leather, felt, and string. Hand-painted using traditional pigments.

Condition:
Good condition with minor fading and surface wear consistent with age. No tears or pinholes. Structurally flat and intact. Attractive natural aging and surface texture throughout.

Dimensions:

• Document Case: 8 x 7 x 0.12 inches

• Pouch: 5.25 x 2.75 x 0.5 inches